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• Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples

Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples

Published on May 29, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 23, 2023.

Transition words and phrases (also called linking words, connecting words, or transitional words) are used to link together different ideas in your text. They help the reader to follow your arguments by expressing the relationships between different sentences or parts of a sentence.

The proposed solution to the problem did not work. Therefore , we attempted a second solution. However , this solution was also unsuccessful.

For clear writing, it’s essential to understand the meaning of transition words and use them correctly.

Table of contents

When and how to use transition words, types and examples of transition words, common mistakes with transition words, other interesting articles.

Transition words commonly appear at the start of a new sentence or clause (followed by a comma ), serving to express how this clause relates to the previous one.

Transition words can also appear in the middle of a clause. It’s important to place them correctly to convey the meaning you intend.

Example text with and without transition words

The text below describes all the events it needs to, but it does not use any transition words to connect them. Because of this, it’s not clear exactly how these different events are related or what point the author is making by telling us about them.

If we add some transition words at appropriate moments, the text reads more smoothly and the relationship among the events described becomes clearer.

Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939. Consequently , France and the United Kingdom declared war on Germany. The Soviet Union initially worked with Germany in order to partition Poland. However , Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.

Don’t overuse transition words

While transition words are essential to clear writing, it’s possible to use too many of them. Consider the following example, in which the overuse of linking words slows down the text and makes it feel repetitive.

In this case the best way to fix the problem is to simplify the text so that fewer linking words are needed.

The key to using transition words effectively is striking the right balance. It is difficult to follow the logic of a text with no transition words, but a text where every sentence begins with a transition word can feel over-explained.

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There are four main types of transition word: additive, adversative, causal, and sequential. Within each category, words are divided into several more specific functions.

Remember that transition words with similar meanings are not necessarily interchangeable. It’s important to understand the meaning of all the transition words you use. If unsure, consult a dictionary to find the precise definition.

Additive transition words

Additive transition words introduce new information or examples. They can be used to expand upon, compare with, or clarify the preceding text.

Adversative transition words

Adversative transition words always signal a contrast of some kind. They can be used to introduce information that disagrees or contrasts with the preceding text.

Causal transition words

Causal transition words are used to describe cause and effect. They can be used to express purpose, consequence, and condition.

Sequential transition words

Sequential transition words indicate a sequence, whether it’s the order in which events occurred chronologically or the order you’re presenting them in your text. They can be used for signposting in academic texts.

Transition words are often used incorrectly. Make sure you understand the proper usage of transition words and phrases, and remember that words with similar meanings don’t necessarily work the same way grammatically.

Misused transition words can make your writing unclear or illogical. Your audience will be easily lost if you misrepresent the connections between your sentences and ideas.

Confused use of therefore

“Therefore” and similar cause-and-effect words are used to state that something is the result of, or follows logically from, the previous. Make sure not to use these words in a way that implies illogical connections.

• We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. Therefore , the average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.

The use of “therefore” in this example is illogical: it suggests that the result of 7.5 follows logically from the question being asked, when in fact many other results were possible. To fix this, we simply remove the word “therefore.”

• We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. The average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.

Starting a sentence with also , and , or so

While the words “also,” “and,” and “so” are used in academic writing, they are considered too informal when used at the start of a sentence.

• Also , a second round of testing was carried out.

To fix this issue, we can either move the transition word to a different point in the sentence or use a more formal alternative.

• A second round of testing was also carried out.
• Additionally , a second round of testing was carried out.

Transition words creating sentence fragments

Words like “although” and “because” are called subordinating conjunctions . This means that they introduce clauses which cannot stand on their own. A clause introduced by one of these words should always follow or be followed by another clause in the same sentence.

The second sentence in this example is a fragment, because it consists only of the “although” clause.

• Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. Although other researchers disagree.

We can fix this in two different ways. One option is to combine the two sentences into one using a comma. The other option is to use a different transition word that does not create this problem, like “however.”

• Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed, although other researchers disagree.
• Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. However , other researchers disagree.

And vs. as well as

Students often use the phrase “ as well as ” in place of “and,” but its usage is slightly different. Using “and” suggests that the things you’re listing are of equal importance, while “as well as” introduces additional information that is less important.

• Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf, as well as presenting my analysis of To the Lighthouse .

In this example, the analysis is more important than the background information. To fix this mistake, we can use “and,” or we can change the order of the sentence so that the most important information comes first. Note that we add a comma before “as well as” but not before “and.”

• Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf and presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse .
• Chapter 1 presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse , as well as discussing some background information on Woolf.

Note that in fixed phrases like “both x and y ,” you must use “and,” not “as well as.”

• Both my results as well as my interpretations are presented below.
• Both my results and my interpretations are presented below.

Use of and/or

The combination of transition words “and/or” should generally be avoided in academic writing. It makes your text look messy and is usually unnecessary to your meaning.

First consider whether you really do mean “and/or” and not just “and” or “or.” If you are certain that you need both, it’s best to separate them to make your meaning as clear as possible.

• Participants were asked whether they used the bus and/or the train.
• Participants were asked whether they used the bus, the train, or both.

Archaic transition words

Words like “hereby,” “therewith,” and most others formed by the combination of “here,” “there,” or “where” with a preposition are typically avoided in modern academic writing. Using them makes your writing feel old-fashioned and strained and can sometimes obscure your meaning.

• Poverty is best understood as a disease. Hereby , we not only see that it is hereditary, but acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.

These words should usually be replaced with a more explicit phrasing expressing how the current statement relates to the preceding one.

• Poverty is best understood as a disease. Understanding it as such , we not only see that it is hereditary, but also acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.

Using a paraphrasing tool for clear writing

With the use of certain tools, you can make your writing clear. One of these tools is a paraphrasing tool . One thing the tool does is help your sentences make more sense. It has different modes where it checks how your text can be improved. For example, automatically adding transition words where needed.

If you want to know more about AI for academic writing, AI tools, or writing rules make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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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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• Academic writing
• Commonly confused words
• Critical thinking
• PEEL Paragraphs
• Linking/transition words
• Paraphrasing
• Proofreading
• Terms and definitions
• Action Words: What is description, application, analysis and evaluation

Linking/transition words: Things you need to know...

All assignments are written in formal language.   You need to ensure that you demonstrate your knowledge and understanding alongside your ability to answer the question/solve the problem. 

Below are some ideas to help you to develop your structure and flow.

• Linking / transition words and phrases join ideas, sentences and paragraphs together. They should be used within sentences and to move from one idea to another (between sentences).   

These words and phrases indicate the direction, order and flow of ideas. Significantly, they strengthen the quality and structure of your work.

• Redundant Words - less is more.  P articularly when trying to reduce the word count, it is important to look for phrases which can be replaced with a single word.

Linking/Transition Words

Transitions link one main idea to another separated by a semi-colon or full-stop.  When the transition word is at the beginning of the sentence, it should be followed by a comma:

Among other functions, they can signal cause and effect or sequencing (see examples in the table below).

Linking words: conjunctions

Linking words within a sentence  are referred to as coordinating conjunctions.  Do not worry about the term: think about the function.

Conciseness / redundant words

Microsoft Word now has an additional feature within the Edito r - it is called conciseness or wordiness.  

• If you cannot see the Editor menu a quick tip is to hold down the function (fn key at the bottom left of the keyboard) + F7 (top line of keys).
• From the Refinements section - select Conciseness - if there are any suggestions a number will appear in the box alongside this option
• A dotted line will appear under any groups of groups
• Either select the identified text by clicking with your right mouse button OR click on the down down next to the Conciseness menu.
• MS Word will display any alternative words which you can either select and they will be replaced in your text or reject if you want to keep the original phrases.

Examples:  try to replace phrases with a single words which mean the same.

Need to know more...

• Related pages
• External links
• Academic writing Illustrates the main features of academic writing so that you are aware of what it is and what it involves
• Critical Thinking Academic work involves thinking, not just accepting what you read or are told.
• Terms and Definitions Important words appear in your assignments and examinations. The aim of this factsheet is to help you to fully understand what they mean.

Additional resources to help you to improve your confidence and grades:-

• Writing Effectively  demonstrates the importance of: clarity, structure, relevance, argument and precision.
• Writing Mechanics  gives further examples and resources on areas including: sentence structure, vocabulary, spelling, punctuation and grammar.

Linking/Transition words - Scribbr  https://www.scribbr.co.uk/syntax/transition-words-examples/ [Accessed 10 February 2023]

There are many books concerning academic writing, look around Dewey number  808

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26 Planning a Discursive Essay

Discursive essay – description.

A discursive essay is a form of critical essay that attempts to provide the reader with a balanced argument on a topic, supported by evidence. It requires critical thinking, as well as sound and valid arguments (see Chapter 25) that acknowledge and analyse arguments both for and against any given topic, plus discursive essay writing appeals to reason, not emotions or opinions. While it may draw some tentative conclusions, based on evidence, the main aim of a discursive essay is to inform the reader of the key arguments and allow them to arrive at their own conclusion.

The writer needs to research the topic thoroughly to present more than one perspective and should check their own biases and assumptions through critical reflection (see Chapter 30).

Unlike persuasive writing, the writer does not need to have knowledge of the audience, though should write using academic tone and language (see Chapter 20).

Choose Your Topic Carefully

A basic guide to choosing an assignment topic is available in Chapter 23, however choosing a topic for a discursive essay means considering more than one perspective. Not only do you need to find information about the topic via academic sources, you need to be able to construct a worthwhile discussion, moving from idea to idea. Therefore, more forward planning is required. The following are decisions that need to be considered when choosing a discursive essay topic:

• These will become the controlling ideas for your three body paragraphs (some essays may require more). Each controlling idea will need arguments both for and against.
• For example, if my topic is “renewable energy” and my three main (controlling) ideas are “cost”, “storage”, “environmental impact”, then I will need to consider arguments both for and against each of these three concepts. I will also need to have good academic sources with examples or evidence to support my claim and counter claim for each controlling idea (More about this in Chapter 27).
• Am I able to write a thesis statement about this topic based on the available research? In other words, do my own ideas align with the available research, or am I going to be struggling to support my own ideas due to a lack of academic sources or research? You need to be smart about your topic choice. Do not make it harder than it has to be. Writing a discursive essay is challenging enough without struggling to find appropriate sources.
• For example, perhaps I find a great academic journal article about the uptake of solar panel installation in suburban Australia and how this household decision is cost-effective long-term, locally stored, and has minimal, even beneficial environmental impact due to the lowering of carbon emissions. Seems too good to be true, yet it is perfect for my assignment. I would have to then find arguments AGAINST everything in the article that supports transitioning suburbs to solar power. I would have to challenge the cost-effectiveness, the storage, and the environmental impact study. Now, all of a sudden my task just became much more challenging.
• There may be vast numbers of journal articles written about your topic, but consider how relevant they may be to your tentative thesis statement. It takes a great deal of time to search for appropriate academic sources. Do you have a good internet connection at home or will you need to spend some quality time at the library? Setting time aside to complete your essay research is crucial for success.

It is only through complete forward planning about the shape and content of your essay that you may be able to choose the topic that best suits your interests, academic ability and time management. Consider how you will approach the overall project, not only the next step.

Research Your Topic

When completing a library search for online peer reviewed journal articles, do not forget to use Boolean Operators to refine or narrow your search field. Standard Boolean Operators are (capitalized) AND, OR and NOT. While using OR will expand your search, AND and NOT will reduce the scope of your search. For example, if I want information on ageism and care giving, but I only want it to relate to the elderly, I might use the following to search a database: ageism AND care NOT children. Remember to keep track of your search strings (like the one just used) and then you’ll know what worked and what didn’t as you come and go from your academic research.

The UQ Library provides an excellent step-by-step guide to searching databases:

Searching in databases – Library – University of Queensland (uq.edu.au)

Did you know that you can also link the UQ Library to Google Scholar? This link tells you how:

Google Scholar – Library – University of Queensland (uq.edu.au)

Write the Thesis Statement

The concept of a thesis statement was introduced in Chapter 21. The information below relates specifically to a discursive essay thesis statement.

As noted in the introduction to this chapter, the discursive essay should not take a stance and therefore the thesis statement must also impartially indicate more than one perspective. The goal is to present both sides of an argument equally and allow the reader to make an informed and well-reasoned choice after providing supporting evidence for each side of the argument.

Sample thesis statements: Solar energy is a cost -effective solution to burning fossil fuels for electricity , however lower income families cannot afford the installation costs .

Some studies indicate that teacher comments written in red may have no effect on students’ emotions , however other studies suggest that seeing red ink on papers could cause some students unnecessary stress. [1]

According to social justice principles, education should be available to all , yet historically, the intellectually and physically impaired may have been exempt from participation due to their supposed inability to learn. [2]

This is where your pros and cons list comes into play. For each pro, or positive statement you make, about your topic, create an equivalent con, or negative statement and this will enable you to arrive at two opposing assertions – the claim and counter claim.

While there may be multiple arguments or perspectives related to your essay topic, it is important that you match each claim with a counter-claim. This applies to the thesis statement and each supporting argument within the body paragraphs of the essay.

It is not just a matter of agreeing or disagreeing. A neutral tone is crucial. Do not include positive or negative leading statements, such as “It is undeniable that…” or “One should not accept the view that…”. You are NOT attempting to persuade the reader to choose one viewpoint over another.

Leading statements / language will be discussed further, in class, within term three of the Academic English course.

Thesis Structure:

• Note the two sides (indicated in green and orange)
• Note the use of tentative language: “Some studies”, “may have”, “could cause”, “some students”
• As the thesis is yet to be discussed in-depth, and you are not an expert in the field, do not use definitive language
• The statement is also one sentence, with a “pivot point” in the middle, with a comma and signposting to indicate a contradictory perspective (in black). Other examples include, nevertheless, though, although, regardless, yet, albeit. DO NOT use the word “but” as it lacks academic tone. Some signposts (e.g., although, though, while) may be placed at the start of the two clauses rather than in the middle – just remember the comma, for example, “While some studies suggest solar energy is cost-effective, other critical research questions its affordability.”
• Also note that it is based on preliminary research and not opinion: “some studies”, “other studies”, “according to social justice principles”, “critical research”.

Claims and Counter Claims

NOTE: Please do not confuse the words ‘claim’ and ‘counter-claim’ with moral or value judgements about right/wrong, good/bad, successful/unsuccessful, or the like. The term ‘claim’ simply refers to the first position or argument you put forward (whether for or against), and ‘counter-claim’ is the alternate position or argument.

In a discursive essay the goal is to present both sides equally and then draw some tentative conclusions based on the evidence presented.

• To formulate your claims and counter claims, write a list of pros and cons.
• For each pro there should be a corresponding con.
• Three sets of pros and cons will be required for your discursive essay. One set for each body paragraph. These become your claims and counter claims.
• For a longer essay, you would need further claims and counter claims.
• Some instructors prefer students to keep the pros and cons in the same order across the body paragraphs. Each paragraph would then have a pro followed by a con or else a con followed by a pro. The order should align with your thesis; if the thesis gives a pro view of the topic followed by a negative view (con) then the paragraphs should also start with the pro and follow with the con, or else vice versa. If not aligned and consistent, the reader may easily become confused as the argument proceeds. Ask your teacher if this is a requirement for your assessment.

Use previous chapters to explore your chosen topic through concept mapping (Chapter 18) and essay outlining (Chapter 19), with one variance; you must include your proposed claims and counter claims in your proposed paragraph structures. What follows is a generic model for a discursive essay. The following Chapter 27 will examine this in further details.

Sample Discursive Essay Outline 

The paragraphs are continuous; the dot-points are only meant to indicate content.

Introduction

• Thesis statement
• Essay outline (including 3 controlling ideas)

Body Paragraphs X 3 (Elaboration and evidence will be more than one sentence, though the topic, claim and counter claim should be succinct)

• T opic sentence, including 1/3 controlling ideas (the topic remains the same throughout the entire essay; it is the controlling idea that changes)
• A claim/assertion about the controlling idea
• E laboration – more information about the claim
• E vidence -academic research (Don’t forget to tell the reader how / why the evidence supports the claim. Be explicit in your E valuation rather than assuming the connection is obvious to the reader)
• A counter claim (remember it must be COUNTER to the claim you made, not about something different)
• E laboration – more information about the counter claim
• E vidence – academic research (Don’t forget to tell the reader how / why the evidence supports the claim. Be explicit in your E valuation rather than assuming the connection is obvious to the reader)
• Concluding sentence – L inks back to the topic and/or the next controlling idea in the following paragraph

Mirror the introduction. The essay outline should have stated the plan for the essay – “This essay will discuss…”, therefore the conclusion should identify that this has been fulfilled, “This essay has discussed…”, plus summarise the controlling ideas and key arguments. ONLY draw tentative conclusions BOTH for and against, allowing the reader to make up their own mind about the topic. Also remember to re-state the thesis in the conclusion. If it is part of the marking criteria, you should also include a recommendation or prediction about the future use or cost/benefit of the chosen topic/concept.

A word of warning, many students fall into the generic realm of stating that there should be further research on their topic or in the field of study. This is a gross statement of the obvious as all academia is ongoing. Try to be more practical with your recommendations and also think about who would instigate them and where the funding might come from.

This chapter gives an overview of what a discursive essay is and a few things to consider when choosing your topic. It also provides a generic outline for a discursive essay structure. The following chapter examines the structure in further detail.

• Inez, S. M. (2018, September 10). What is a discursive essay, and how do you write a good one? Kibin. ↵
• Hale, A., & Basides, H. (2013). The keys to academic English. Palgrave ↵

researched, reliable, written by academics and published by reputable publishers; often, but not always peer reviewed

assertion, maintain as fact

The term ‘claim’ simply refers to the first position or argument you put forward (whether for or against), and ‘counter-claim’ is the alternate position or argument.

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: 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?

Our specialists will write a custom essay on any topic for 13.00 10.40/page

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!

Receive a plagiarism-free paper tailored to your instructions.

• 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:

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• 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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How to Write a Discursive Essay: Effective Guide

25 Nov 2022

Quick Navigation

❓What Is a Discursive Essay?

✅Discursive Essay vs. Other Types of Essay

Argumentative

Descriptive.

✏️Discursive Essay Format

🔍Helpful Tips: How to Write a Good Discursive Essay?

💪How to Write a Discursive Essay?

How to Start a Discursive Essay?

How to develop the discursive essay body, how to end a discursive essay.

📝Do’s and Don’ts of a Discursive Essay

What to Do When Writing a Discursive Essay?

What not to do when writing a discursive essay.

If you’re pursuing a university degree, writing various assignments is unavoidable. Like it or not, you’ll have to draft at least a few every semester. Among other paper types, teachers favor discursive essays to encourage students to express a neutral standpoint regarding a given issue.

Moreover, this academic piece tests whether you possess polished writing and critical thinking skills. Besides your opinion, you’d also have to provide reliable evidence as a backup for your claim. Hence, a decent discursive essay requires thorough research and preparation.

But what should you pay attention to when writing the first draft ? Is pure talent enough, or are there other elements that make a successful manuscript? Below, we unravel the path to an A+ paper!

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What Is a Discursive Essay?

A discursive essay aims to elaborate on a given topic in a balanced way. The subject matter is often a dilemma or issue, so there are usually two or three possible solutions. Hence, the ideal piece must include all sides of the problem and present objective and all-encompassing evidence about the topic.

The writer must maintain an impersonal style to avoid polarizing things and being biased. Many students hire a custom essay writing service because they either take one side or impose their views on the matter. As a result, they end up with an argumentative paper, which is entirely different.

The primary purpose of a discursive essay is to unveil the truth by exploring various topic-related arguments. Therefore, proper research, pondering the issue, and thinking critically, are critical aspects of the writing process.

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Discursive Essay vs. Other Types of Essay

Though you might easily confuse discursive writing with other articles, the differences are striking. Let’s see what sets them apart and define their bordering points.​​

Both kinds of papers come from the same family. They discuss a topic by revealing facts and supporting them with examples. The main difference is that in argumentative works, one standpoint prevails. Though they list and acknowledge all arguments, the emphasis revolves around one point.

Ideally, argumentative writing  aims to persuade the audience to adopt a position. The writer presents the claims in a way that convinces the reader to pick a side. Conversely, the discursive essay explains the facts objectively but never urges the reader to shift views.

The purpose of a descriptive essay is to convey a picture for the readers to imagine. To this end, the author uses versatile adjectives and adverbs that help deliver the initial message. Moreover, comparisons, contrasts, and sensory figures of speech are inevitable if you want to create an eye-catching piece.

In contrast, discursive essays provide hard facts free of metaphors, idioms, and similes. The underlying purpose is to inform the readers and not engage their senses with flowery words. When you need to describe information in more detail, the descriptions should be as short and accurate as possible but never overly decorative.

​​Storytelling requires you to conceptualize a narration . In this case, your account can be informal and include descriptive writing elements. Since you have to hook the interest of the audience, the introduction and conclusion must be attention-grabbing and thought-provoking.

These papers follow a structure that usually involves a twist or unexpected events. Besides telling a story, you can also use this style for writing a character analysis essay for college. The smoother your retelling technique, the more successful your work will be.

With discursive essays, the primary focus is on facts and evidence. Hence, avoid weaving a tale because you might easily stray from the central idea. As a result, you can lose your target and omit the critical data you’re trying to present.

Discursive Essay Format

As with any academic work, you must  write in a specific outline . To some extent, this venture resembles thematic essay writing because you’re elaborating on a concrete topic and including a clearly-defined thesis statement.

The typical structure of a discursive essay doesn’t differ much from that of other academic papers. It is usually a five or six-paragraph work that includes an introduction, three or more body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Here’s what a standard structure should look like :

• Introductory paragraph
• Argument 1 with supporting evidence
• Argument 2 with supporting evidence
• Argument 3 with supporting evidence
• Paragraph with opposing views or counterarguments

Helpful Tips: How to Write a Good Discursive Essay?

Though you might follow the layout presented above and get all your standpoints in order, there are a few minor aspects you mustn’t neglect. Pay attention to the following:

• Start each passage with a topic sentence that describes the most significant point.
• Spend a few days drafting and finalizing your work; doing articles overnight is a no-go.
• Don’t give a loud voice to your standpoint.
• Use formal language that is impersonal. In short, white in third person speech.
• Avoid copying content but rephrase what you found with your own words. You can use a free online paraphrasing tool to help you write a plagiarism-free piece.
• Allow yourself enough time to edit and proofread your work in the end.
• Communicate only fair aspects, but don’t overgeneralize or use clichés.
• Convey your points in an alternate manner if your mentor allows this format.
• Try the SEA method. S stands for making a statement, E for giving examples or evidence to support your claim, and A for applying theory in real life.

Writing a discursive essay can be challenging, but with the help of PapersOwl and its cheap essay writers , you can create a well-structured, argumentative essay in no time. Our writers have the skills and experience to craft an essay that will help you make your point effectively.

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Editors on PapersOwl can edit your paper and give recommendations on how to improve your writing:

• Punctuation
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How to Write a Discursive Essay?

Before you sit down and start brainstorming ideas, read a few samples online. This way, you’ll get the hang of the writing process and what each paragraph must include. Most importantly, stay unprejudiced and leave your feelings behind. Instead, concentrate on building and supporting your argumentation.

While the introduction is usually a fraction of the final work, it is critical. In it, you catch the reader’s attention and present your topic. Hence, ensure you make it as engaging and enlightening as possible. Moreover, the length of this part should be about 10% of the entire assignment.

The discursive essay introduction should contain a few sentences that compress the general idea. Hence, brevity and conciseness are your best shot at delivering the relevance of your subject matter to the public.

Once finished, use the introduction to define the core of the body paragraphs. If you have difficulties, order a professional service to write your essay for money and pick your writer, depending on the topic’s complexity.

However, if you decide to proceed with the discursive essay yourself, put maximum effort into the opening paragraph. It’s advisable to give the strongest arguments first and then continue with the other standpoints. Also, don’t mix different points in a single paragraph but elaborate on one position at a given time.

Finally, take time to brainstorm and present your counterarguments. All statements must be objective and show your impartiality on the matter. When developing the body paragraphs, cite credible references like journals, statistics, and other supporting evidence.

You must write a conclusion as the final paragraph of your manuscript. Similar to the introduction, this part aims to frame the central idea in simple words. So, if you wonder how to write a discursive essay conclusion, summarize all points stated and give an impartial opinion.

In addition, restate the mentioned arguments only and never introduce new information. Last, it would be ideal if your summary encourages future discussion among the audience. Your recommendations and predictions on the topic should also stimulate further research.

Do’s and Don’ts of a Discursive Essay

Here are some essay writing tips worth considering for a perfect outcome. The same ideas are relevant for writing a poetry essay with ease for university. Tick each hack when reviewing your final copy.

• Different arguments go in separate paragraphs.
• Write well-developed ideas supported by examples.
• Give reasons for every position.
• Use the sequencing method.
• Maintain a balanced style.
• Include linking words and phrases to enhance reading and flow of thought.
• Identify the sources you use by following a proper citation style.
• Avoid abbreviated forms and contractions, such as I’d, won’t, and you’re.
• Never include informal and colloquial language like ain’t, gonna, or as good as gold.
• Your topic will be specific so forget about generalizations because they lead away from accuracy and reliability. You might end up with arbitrary conclusions that will spoil the overall impression.
• Emotional language is off-limits because it often signposts prejudice.
• Steer away from personal examples because this means you’re taking a side.
• Don’t insist on one standpoint at the cost of others.
• Avoid stats you cannot prove or reference.

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  The Ultimate List of Linking Words for Your Essay

  

  Let’s face it: You can’t write an essay (or any other writing piece) without linking words.

  Also known as connecting words or transition words, they serve to make your writing flow and help those reading your work follow the flow of your thoughts, ideas , and  arguments .

  This post is your guide to linking words and their role in writing. Not only will you learn the types of these words, examples, and reasons to use them, but you’ll also get a massive list of transition words and phrases as well as linking words PDF to download and use whenever necessary.

  Table of Contents:

  What are Linking Words?

  Why use transition words in essays, linking words examples, addition/agreement/similarity, contrast/contradiction/limitation/opposition, comparison/concession/condition, clarification, cause/effect/result, emphasis/example, generalization, illustration, location/place/space, reason/reference, time/sequence, summary/conclusion/restatement.

  • The Ultimate List of Linking Words: Download

  Linking words are lexical items (words and phrases) we use to connect ideas in writing and get a reader to the next sentence or paragraph.

  They aren’t about essay writing only:

  Whether you write a fiction book,  marketing content , academic works,  autobiography , or poems, you’ll need to connect ideas. That’s what transition words do:

  They link your thoughts and arguments into a chain to show how they relate to each other. Also known as transition words, these phrases often start a sentence or a paragraph. However, you’ll also use them in the middle of sentences to bring ideas together.

  The most common places for linking words in essays are:

  • the start of a paragraph
  • the start of a sentence introducing a new idea or extending an argument 
  • the beginning of a concluding statement

  Essay linking words is an integral part of academic writing. Put it simply, you can’t write a paper without using them; otherwise, your writing won’t make any sense for readers.

  Transition words for essay serve to:

  • connect ideas in writing
  • create a flow of thoughts and arguments for readers to understand what you want to say
  • guide readers from one idea to another, demonstrating how they relate to each other
  • hook readers  and encourage them to read the next sentence or paragraph
  • add more information
  • support or contrast a point
  • show the result, conclude, demonstrate an effect of this or that point

  Using essay maker and connecting words, each sentence and paragraph must pass readers on to the next one. These connecting words serve as an instrument to guide readers from one thought or point to the next.

  Linking words examples are many, and it’s clear why: every piece of writing contains tons of connecting and transition words. Let’s take an essay sample from  Bid4Papers writers  to see the example of linking words in academic writing:

  

  This one was an  essay introduction . 

  Now, why not take a step further and look for essay linking words in  essay conclusions ?

  

  Types and List of Linking Words to Use in Essays

  Below you’ll find the ultimate list of transition words for essays by categories. Choose the role you need a word to play (reason, contrast, emphasis, restatement, etc.) and consider the corresponding table of transitions.

  If you need the whole transition words list in one place, jump to the next category of this post to find the downloadable linking words pdf.

  And now, for connecting words categories:

  These words serve to add info to what you’ve previously stated, demonstrate the commonality between arguments, and support your thoughts.

  Linking words for contrast is your instrument to show how things are different and provide counterarguments. They work best in  persuasive  and  critical  essays.

  These lexical items will help you if you need to provide conditions to your statements, show how things are different/similar, or accept a point with reservation.

  These words will help you with  personal  or  narrative essays: They are linking words in opinion writing that indicates you’re going to explore ideas in more detail.

  Expository essays will win with these words too.

  Cause and effect connecting words do what their name says exactly: demonstrating a cause of some point and providing the result of what has been done or started.

  These words are for putting forward your point more forcefully, providing examples.

  Perfect transition words for hypothesis essays , generalization lexical items serve to make a general statement you’ll then specify and prove in detail.

  These words and phrases are for you to provide examples in essays.

  Use these words to provide order and reference or clarify spatial relationships between your points or ideas.

  These transitional words will help you demonstrate relationships between ideas and provide reasons for what and why has started or occurred.

  Use these words in your essay when you need to indicate the time and order of what you say.

  Restatement words will help you express an alternative to what you previously stated. They work for all essay types, including  rhetorical precis  and  dialectic essays .

  Use summary and conclusion transitional phrases to sum up your points and come up with the final paragraph of your writing.

  The Ultimate List of Connecting Words: Download

  And now, for the most interesting and practical part:

  Below you can find the linking words worksheet that gathers all the most commonly used transitional words in essays. Feel free to download this linking words PDF and refer to it every time you write an essay and experience writer’s block:

  

  Do you need more guides and worksheets like this to assist you with academic writing? Please share your ideas in the comments, and our writers will be happy to help!

  Our Writing Guides

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  English@HighSchool

  Assessing and monitoring students’ performance (amsp), curriculum, teaching, reading and writing; as well as mentoring and leadership ideas at high school., how to write an excellent discursive essay @ highschool, a discursive essay is a piece of formal writing that discusses a problem, a controversy, or a particular issue..

  There are two basic kinds of discursive essays:

  • Persuasive essays in which you can argue strongly either in favour of or against a given discussion.
  • Argumentative essays.

  Writing a discursive essay forces you to review all aspects and viewpoints of a particular topic, allowing you to think deeper and more critical.

  TYPES OF DISCURSIVE ESSAYS

  There are three main types of discursive essays of FIVE paragraphs each (400-450 words):

  1. FOR AND AGAINST ESSAYS present both sides of an issue, discussing points in favour of a particular topic as well as those against, or the advantages and disadvantages of a particular question. Each point should be supported by justifications, examples, and/or reasons. The writer’s own opinion should be presented only in the final paragraph.

  How to structure it: It has a generic introduction where you state the topic (without stating your opinion). In the next two paragraphs you present arguments for and justifications, examples or reasons. In the fourth paragraph you present arguments against and justifications, examples or reasons. Thus, in the conclusion you need to balance your consideration or opinion.

  2. OPINION ESSAYS present the writer’s personal opinion concerning the topic, clearly stated and supported by reasons and/or examples. The opposing viewpoint and reason should be included in a separate paragraph before the closing one, together with an argument that shows it is an unconvincing viewpoint. The writer’s opinion should be included in the introduction, and summarized/restated in the conclusion.

  How to structure it: It has a generic introduction in which you state the topic and your opinion followed by two paragraphs with viewpoints and reasons/ examples. So paragraph 4 will have the opposing viewpoint and reason/example. In your conclusion , you will have to summarise/restate your main opinion.

  NB: For both FOR AND AGAINST ESSAYS and OPINION ESSAYS, remember to indicate, in a single paragraph, that there is another side to this argument, with some idea of the points likely to be made for the view(s) which are opposite to your own.

  3. SOLUTIONS TO PROBLEMS ESSAYS, in which the problem(s) associated with a particular issue or situation are analysed and possible solutions are put forward, together with any expected results/consequences. The writer’s opinion may be mentioned, directly or indirectly, in the introduction and/or conclusion.

  How to structure it: In the general introduction you state the problem and its cause(s)/effect(s). The other FOUR paragraphs look at suggestions and results. This will lead to the c onclusion where you summarise your opinion.

  Besides the three types above, many scholars are now engaged with the . . . .

  ALTERNATE DISCURSIVE ESSAY   – Here make sure you alternate from one argument to the other in an alternate manner, ie: you have an introduction then if you have written the second paragraph in support of the topic, then your third paragraph should be something against the topic and not in support of it. However, the fourth paragrap h could be similar to paragraph two, supporting the topic as before.

  To write the conclusion you need to sum up the key points, which you will have mentioned in the body paragraphs and based on the essay type, you can state your final position on the topic/statement, which can be either for or against, or even can be neither of the two. Also, remember that your conclusion is not just a repetition of the arguments you have mentioned in the body paragraphs, but a summary of the main findings.

  This combination of alternate for and against paragraphs will make your essay look distinct, better and thoroughly researched and will result in a lasting impact on the reader’s mind.

  ELEMENTS OF A DISCURSIVE ESSAY

  Some of the distinguishing elements of a discursive essay are:

  • Its objectivity . It is important that the writer present the problem in an unbiased manner, discussing all points of argument thoroughly and carefully .
  • An introductory paragraph in which you clearly state the topic to be discussed or the issue’s relevance and context to other current issues
  • A main body – three body paragraphs – in which points are clearly stated in separate paragraphs and exemplified or justified;
  • Present each point in a separate paragraph . A well-developed paragraph contains a clear topic sentence, which summaries the contents of the paragraph, as well as a clear justification, explanation or example in support of the point presented.
  • It is written in a third-person perspective and avoid using first-person phrases such as “in my opinion,” “I believe,” and “I fully support.”
  • A closing paragraph summarising the main points of the essay, in which you stale/restate your opinion, and/or give a balanced consideration of the topic.

  FORMAL STYLE

  Discursive essays are written in formal style. This means you should . . .

  • Write in passive voice, impersonal constructions, eg: (It is argued that . . .; It Is a common belief that . . . ). Thus, the writer remains neutral and detached from the topic (objective).
  • Points are listed sequentially with the most important points first.
  • Use a range of advanced vocabulary (verbs, adjectives, abstract nouns, etc)
  • Use sequencing (e.g. First/ly, Second/ly, etc) and linking words/phrases (e.g. however, although, furthermore, however, nonetheless)
  • Use complex sentences with a variety of links , dependent clauses, etc (e.g. Although it is widely accepted that . . . .)
  • Make references to other sources (e.g. Experts have proved that . . . )
  • Make generalisations (e.g. ln most developed countries, education . . . )
  • Inversion, especially in conditionals, (e.g. Were this true, we would . . . ; Never has this been more obvious . . . )
  • Use quotations , either word-for-word or in paraphrase, being careful to identify the source (e.g. As Winston Churchill said,”. . . )
  • Use RACPpERSEE! (There is a topic coming on this, in the Argumentative essay. Once you have mastered this acronym, you will see yourself excelling)

  You should NOT use . . .

  • short forms (e.g. I’m, It’s) except when these are part of a quotation
  • colloquial expressions, phrasal verbs, idioms , (e.g. lots of, put up with, be over the moon about…)
  • very emotional language (e.g. I absolutely detest people who…)
  • express personal opinions too strongly (e.g. I know…); instead, use milder expressions (e.g. It seems to me that…)
  • simplistic vocabulary (e.g. Experts say they think this is bad….)
  • over-generalisation (e.g. All politicians are…)
  • refer blindly to statistics without accurate reference to their source (e.g. “A recent study showed…” – which study?)
  • a series of short sentences (e.g. Many people think so. They are wrong.)
  • personal examples (e.g. In my school…)
  • simple linking words (e.g. and, but, so) except for variety

  So how do I take off?

  Introducing a discursive essay.

  The opening of an essay is important. It should capture the reader’s attention in some way or another. It should avoid being bland or dull. It should invite the reader to read on and create a sense of interest. If the beginning is flat, it will not inspire your audience.

  Methods of Opening a Discursive Essay

  The following methods are suggestions from BBC’s Bitesize . It is up to you to decide which style suits your writing best.

  • Provocative – eg. – “It is difficult to see how anyone can approve of fox hunting.”
  • Balanced – eg. – “Fox hunting is a subject about which people hold strongly contrasting views.”
  • Quotation – eg. – “Oscar Wilde once described fox hunting as ‘The unspeakable in pursuit of the uneatable.’.”
  • Illustration – eg. – “On a glorious autumn morning a terrified, exhausted animal is savaged to death by a pack of baying dogs while a group of expensively dressed humans encourage the dogs in their bloody work.”
  • Anecdote – eg. – “I have always detested fox hunting since I was almost physically sick while watching a television film of the kill at the end of a hunt.”

  Linking Ideas In A Discursive Essay

  Any well-written piece of discursive writing will flow as one continuous piece despite being made up of three or four different arguments. One of the techniques which can help you to achieve this effectively is the use of linking words. These words are usually used at the beginning of a new paragraph but can also be used to link ideas within a paragraph.

  • Same line of thought – eg: and, firstly, secondly etc., next, furthermore, likewise, in addition, similarly, also, moreover.
  • Conclusion/summary –  eg: – thus, therefore, consequently, accordingly, in retrospect, hence, in conclusion, in brief, as a result.
  • Definite statement –  eg: – without question, without doubt, unquestionably, absolutely.
  • Contrasting idea – eg: – yet, on the other hand, nevertheless, however, although, conversely, otherwise, on the contrary.
  • Further examples – eg: because, for instance, since, for example, so that, despite the fact that, accordingly, although, if, though, unless.

  Discursive Essay Topics

  Try one of these essays and then send it to me for marking. Write in about 400-450 words in length.

  • “When people succeed, it is because of hard work. Luck has nothing to do with success.” Discuss.
  • One should never judge a person by external appearances. Discuss.
  • “Animals should be treated with the same respect as humans.” Do you agree with this view?
  • “The generation gap is one which cannot be bridged.” Discuss.
  • Do you believe that equality for women means that women should also do such things as military service?
  • “One language spoken worldwide would lead to better international relations.” Discuss.
  • Genetic engineering poses a number of worrying problems, both moral and practical. Discuss some of these problems and suggest what could be done to overcome them.
  • “Celebrities should be allowed to keep their private lives private, without the invasion of the media.” Discuss.
  • “Fear and ignorance are the root causes of racial hatred.” Discuss this state-ment and offer some possible solutions to the problem of racial prejudice.
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of our ever-increasing use of computer technology?

  Good luck in your endeavours.

  As of old: be empowered and excel., share this:.

  

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  Enhancing Academic Understanding in Discursive Essays with Linking Words

  • July 27, 2023

  In the realm of academic writing, the effective use of linking words plays a crucial role in developing a coherent and well-structured essay. Linking words, also known as transition words or connectors, are essential tools that connect ideas, facilitate smooth transitions between paragraphs, and enhance the overall clarity and coherence of discursive essays. In this blog post, we will explore how linking words provide academic understanding and improve the quality of discursive essays.

  • Establishing Logical Connections: Linking words help establish logical connections between different parts of an essay. They enable writers to demonstrate relationships, comparisons, cause and effect, and other logical connections between ideas. For instance, “Furthermore,” “Moreover,” and “In addition” can be used to introduce additional supporting points or evidence, strengthening the arguments made in the essay.
  • Signaling Contrast and Opposition: Discursive essays often require the presentation of contrasting viewpoints or arguments. Linking words such as “However,” “On the other hand,” and “Conversely” are instrumental in signaling opposing ideas. These words create a smooth transition from one perspective to another, showcasing the writer’s ability to critically analyze different viewpoints and contribute to a balanced argument.
  • Expressing Cause and Effect: To provide a clear understanding of the causes and effects discussed in a discursive essay, linking words such as “Therefore,” “As a result,” and “Consequently” can be employed. These words establish a cause-and-effect relationship between ideas, enabling readers to grasp the connections between specific events, actions, or phenomena.
  • Emphasizing Key Points: Linking words can also be used to emphasize important points or arguments within an essay. Words like “Notably,” “Significantly,” and “Crucially” draw attention to the significance of a particular idea or evidence, reinforcing its relevance and impact in the overall argument.
  • Sequencing Ideas: In discursive essays, it is essential to present ideas in a logical sequence. Linking words such as “Firstly,” “Secondly,” and “Finally” help structure the essay and guide readers through the writer’s thought process. These words provide a sense of organization and enable readers to follow the flow of ideas more effectively.

  In conclusion, the proper use of linking words significantly enhances academic understanding in discursive essays. By establishing logical connections, signaling contrast and opposition, expressing cause and effect, emphasizing key points, and sequencing ideas, these essential tools contribute to the clarity, coherence, and overall quality of academic writing. As aspiring writers, mastering the usage of linking words empowers us to craft compelling discursive essays that effectively communicate our arguments and ideas to readers.

  Remember, practice and familiarity with different linking words will enable you to harness their power and elevate your academic writing skills. So, embrace the art of linking words and unlock new avenues of academic understanding in your discursive essays.

  Here is a list of complex linking words along with sentence examples to demonstrate their usage:

  • Furthermore: Furthermore, the study revealed significant correlations between the two variables.
  • Moreover: The new findings provide valuable insights into the topic. Moreover, they support previous research in the field.
  • Additionally: The company has implemented cost-cutting measures. Additionally, they have focused on improving employee productivity.
  • On the other hand: The study indicates a positive impact of exercise on mental health. On the other hand, it acknowledges that individual differences can influence the outcomes.
  • However: The experiment yielded inconclusive results. However, further investigation is needed to draw definitive conclusions.
  • Nevertheless: The data suggests a decline in sales. Nevertheless, the company remains optimistic about future growth.
  • In contrast: The first group received traditional training. In contrast, the second group received an innovative approach using technology.
  • Nonetheless: The project encountered several challenges. Nonetheless, it was successfully completed within the given timeframe.
  • Subsequently: The research team conducted surveys to collect data. Subsequently, they analyzed the findings to draw conclusions.
  • Conversely: The research supports the hypothesis in some aspects. Conversely, it challenges certain assumptions in other areas.
  • In addition: The company offers competitive salaries and benefits. In addition, employees have access to professional development opportunities.
  • Consequently: The team missed the deadline for project completion. Consequently, they had to revise the project timeline.
  • Likewise: The study found a positive correlation between income and education level. Likewise, it discovered a similar association with job satisfaction.
  • Nonetheless: The results were unexpected. Nonetheless, they provided valuable insights for future research.
  • Alternatively: Students can choose between two elective courses. Alternatively, they can opt for an independent study project.

  These complex linking words can enhance the cohesion and coherence of your writing by establishing logical relationships between ideas and supporting a more sophisticated writing style.

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  33 Transition Words and Phrases

  Transitional terms give writers the opportunity to prepare readers for a new idea, connecting the previous sentence to the next one.

  Many transitional words are nearly synonymous: words that broadly indicate that “this follows logically from the preceding” include accordingly, therefore, and consequently . Words that mean “in addition to” include moreover, besides, and further . Words that mean “contrary to what was just stated” include however, nevertheless , and nonetheless .

  as a result : THEREFORE : CONSEQUENTLY

  The executive’s flight was delayed and they accordingly arrived late.

  in or by way of addition : FURTHERMORE

  The mountain has many marked hiking trails; additionally, there are several unmarked trails that lead to the summit.

  at a later or succeeding time : SUBSEQUENTLY, THEREAFTER

  Afterward, she got a promotion.

  even though : ALTHOUGH

  She appeared as a guest star on the show, albeit briefly.

  in spite of the fact that : even though —used when making a statement that differs from or contrasts with a statement you have just made

  They are good friends, although they don't see each other very often.

  in addition to what has been said : MOREOVER, FURTHERMORE

  I can't go, and besides, I wouldn't go if I could.

  as a result : in view of the foregoing : ACCORDINGLY

  The words are often confused and are consequently misused.

  in a contrasting or opposite way —used to introduce a statement that contrasts with a previous statement or presents a differing interpretation or possibility

  Large objects appear to be closer. Conversely, small objects seem farther away.

  used to introduce a statement that is somehow different from what has just been said

  These problems are not as bad as they were. Even so, there is much more work to be done.

  used as a stronger way to say "though" or "although"

  I'm planning to go even though it may rain.

  in addition : MOREOVER

  I had some money to invest, and, further, I realized that the risk was small.

  in addition to what precedes : BESIDES —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement

  These findings seem plausible. Furthermore, several studies have confirmed them.

  because of a preceding fact or premise : for this reason : THEREFORE

  He was a newcomer and hence had no close friends here.

  from this point on : starting now

  She announced that henceforth she would be running the company.

  in spite of that : on the other hand —used when you are saying something that is different from or contrasts with a previous statement

  I'd like to go; however, I'd better not.

  as something more : BESIDES —used for adding information to a statement

  The city has the largest population in the country and in addition is a major shipping port.

  all things considered : as a matter of fact —used when making a statement that adds to or strengthens a previous statement

  He likes to have things his own way; indeed, he can be very stubborn.

  for fear that —often used after an expression denoting fear or apprehension

  He was concerned lest anyone think that he was guilty.

  in addition : ALSO —often used to introduce a statement that adds to and is related to a previous statement

  She is an acclaimed painter who is likewise a sculptor.

  at or during the same time : in the meantime

  You can set the table. Meanwhile, I'll start making dinner.

  BESIDES, FURTHER : in addition to what has been said —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement

  It probably wouldn't work. Moreover, it would be very expensive to try it.

  in spite of that : HOWEVER

  It was a predictable, but nevertheless funny, story.

  in spite of what has just been said : NEVERTHELESS

  The hike was difficult, but fun nonetheless.

  without being prevented by (something) : despite—used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true

  Notwithstanding their youth and inexperience, the team won the championship.

  if not : or else

  Finish your dinner. Otherwise, you won't get any dessert.

  more correctly speaking —used to introduce a statement that corrects what you have just said

  We can take the car, or rather, the van.

  in spite of that —used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true

  I tried again and still I failed.

  by that : by that means

  He signed the contract, thereby forfeiting his right to the property.

  for that reason : because of that

  This tablet is thin and light and therefore very convenient to carry around.

  immediately after that

  The committee reviewed the documents and thereupon decided to accept the proposal.

  because of this or that : HENCE, CONSEQUENTLY

  This detergent is highly concentrated and thus you will need to dilute it.

  while on the contrary —used to make a statement that describes how two people, groups, etc., are different

  Some of these species have flourished, whereas others have struggled.

  NEVERTHELESS, HOWEVER —used to introduce a statement that adds something to a previous statement and usually contrasts with it in some way

  It was pouring rain out, yet his clothes didn’t seem very wet.

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  Linking Words To Use In An Essay

  

  Table of Contents

  Linking words are those words that showcase a connection between sentences. Linking words help in forming the uniformity in the essay. These words are also known as transition words and used to show a relation among paragraphs or different sections in an essay. As the name suggests, Linking words bridge the gap between the ideas or concepts written in the essays. Your text seems to be more cohesive with the usage of linking words. Use proper linking words to reduce the reading efforts of the readers. Readers don’t want to take mental stress in understanding your essay. Therefore, it is necessary to make things easy for them.

  Different types of linking words in an essay

  It is not an easy task to compose a compelling essay. If you want to make your essay more appealing and expressive, then focus on three things, first is research, presentation and persuasion. If you don’t have a knack for writing, then you will fail miserably in forming a cohesive essay with judicial use of linking words.

  Linking words play an important role in any type of essay. Without linking words, the information presented in an essay is just a dump of words. If you don’t want your essay to be clunky and disjointed one, use linking words and phrases correctly.

  There are various categories of linking words one can use while writing an essay. Today in this blog, you will read 8 main categories and linking words list to be used while framing an essay. So here are 8 types of linking words to be used in an essay:

  Read Also- Business Management

  Linking words list for order and sequence

  

  Flow is necessary for any type of essay. If there is an absence of flow of ideas, thoughts or logic in your essay, it will lose its glory. Here is a linking words list that helps by showing a sequence order in the essay.

  • First/ Second/ Third or Firstly/ secondly/ Thirdly
  • Primary/ Secondary
  • At the same time
  • At this point of time
  • Concurrently
  • First of all
  • Following this
  • In the first place
  • The next step
  • In the beginning
  • It all started when
  • Once upon a time
  • To begin with/ To start with

  Linking words list to show a comparison

  

  In various types of essays such as argumentative essay writing, compare and contrast essay writing, you might need to show comparison. Read different comparative essay examples to understand the role of these words in making a comparison. Therefore, you can follow the following words to make the comparison more clear. Here is a linking words list to show comparison:

  • Just as … so too
  • In the same time
  • By the same token
  • In the same way

  Linking words list for contrasting

  Just like the way you need linking words to show comparison, there are words that are used to show the contrast as well. Here is a of linking words list to show contrast:

  • However/ Nevertheless
  • Alternatively
  • Despite this
  • On the contrary
  • In spite of

  Illustrating an example linking words list

  Almost all types of essays require evidence or some examples to prove a specific point of view. But just telling an example may sound blunt. That is why we use linking words to show examples in a beautified manner. Have a look at the linking words list:

  • For example
  • For instance
  • In other words
  • An instance
  • As revealed by
  • To show that
  • In the case of
  • As an example
  • For one thing

  Linking words list for additions

  

  If you want to add some more information you can use addition linking words to convey the right meaning. Using “also” or “and” everywhere in the essay can take the charm away. So here is a linking words list you can use to while adding new information.

  • Furthermore
  • In addition
  • Specifically
  • To illustrate
  • To demonstrate
  • In line manner
  • Not only … but also
  • What’s more
  • By the same

  Cause and effect linking words list

  In any essay, if you want to draw a rational conclusion, you need to use cause and effect words. This makes a good connection of the whole essay with a conclusion. Use these linking words in an essay to show the cause and effect relationship.

  • Consequently
  • As a result of
  • As a consequence of
  • Contributes to
  • For this reason
  • Results from
  • Is the result of
  • Is the consequence of
  • Is caused by

  Linking words list to Conclude

  A good essay is one that is having a good conclusion. While most of the students use almost the same words to conclude their essays, here you have the chance to conclude the essay with some good words. Look at the linking words list for an excellent conclusion:

  • To conclude
  • In conclusion
  • On the whole
  • Summarising
  • By and large
  • All things considered
  • In the long run
  • For the most part
  • By the large
  • As a result

  As you can see there are 8 main types of linking word categories that can be used while writing an essay. For more understanding visit smartwords.org .

  But just using these words is not enough. You need to adjust and position them correctly or else, they will fail to tempt the readers.

  In the next paragraph, I will be showing how to use these words in the sentences.

  How to position linking or transition words in an essay

  Using linking words correctly in an essay is not rocket science. You can learn it easily, all you need is the focus while writing an essay. There are three ways or I should say positions where you can fit your connecting words or linking words. 

  The first position is: At the beginning of the sentence

  You can start a sentence with a linking word that provides a reference to the previous point. Have a look at some examples to understand more clearly.

  • One can have a lot of difficulty in writing creatively. However, creative writing is a useful skill.
  • I am not a big fan of marvel comics. On the other hand, I like their concept.
  • I fumble a lot while speaking. As a result, I fail to clear interviews.

  The second position is: In the middle of the sentence

  In an essay, you can use linkings words in the middle of the sentences as well. Usually, we write it after the subject. Learn how to use through the following examples.

  • One cannot escape from failures. They are, however, good lessons of life.
  • I am not good at grammar, as a result, I fail to get good grades in academic assignments.
  • The correct information is required for a good essay, but ideas too, play an important role.

  The third position is: At the end of the sentence

  At times you can use the connection or linking words at the end of the essay. It makes sense, you can see that in the following sentences.

  • Learning grammatical rules is a tough process. It is very useful, however.
  • I am not a lover of poetry. I love to recite them, on the other hand.
  • I am not a confident speaker. I get nervous in public speaking, as a result.

  I hope the above-mentioned information will help you to understand the correct use of linking words in an essay. For more help, you can visit Englishathome.com and learn more about the words to use in essays.

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  150 Excellent Discursive Essay Topics for Students To Consider

  Table of Contents

  Do you want to write an engaging discursive essay? Are you struggling to come up with the best discursive essay topics for your assignment? Don’t worry! To help you with discursive essay writing, here, in this blog post, we have explained what a discursive essay means, its types, and the simple steps for writing it. Also, we have shared some interesting discursive essay topics and ideas to consider for assignments.

  

  If you don’t know where to begin your essay, then keep on reading this blog post and update your knowledge on discursive essay writing.

  What is a Discursive Essay?

  A discursive essay is a type of academic essay in which you have to share your opinions or views in support of the topic or against the topic. Even at certain times, this essay would permit you to present your views on both sides of a topic in a neutral manner.

  The ultimate aim of a discursive essay is to provide the readers with multiple viewpoints on a particular essay help topic or idea. Therefore, while writing a discursive essay, you will have to think deeper from various perspectives and review all the aspects of the subject.

  Basically, a discursive essay appears like an argumentative essay or persuasive essay , but it is actually different from them in certain ways. In a nutshell, a discursive essay discusses arguments in a balanced way taking into account all the factors that are for and against the topic.

  Types of Discursive Essays

  The discursive essay is classified into three types as listed below.

  

  For and Against Essay

  It is a form of discursive essay that will argumentatively discuss either for or against the topic or theme. When writing an essay of this type, you should make sure to concentrate on both the advantages and disadvantages of the topic and present your views neutrally. Particularly, before wrapping up the essay, you should showcase your opinion on the topic by specifying your preference.

  Solutions Recommending Essay

  This discursive essay type will outline the issue and will recommend several possible solutions for that issue. But when you wrap up this essay, in the conclusion paragraph, you should highlight your opinion on the best solution to the issue and explain why that solution is effective.

  Opinion Essay

  It is a kind of discursive essay in which you have to share your opinions or arguments on a specific topic with supporting evidence from credible sources. Most importantly, while concluding this essay, you should remember to put forward your arguments against the topic and explain the reason why they are not persuasive.

  How to Write a Discursive Essay

  Do you wonder how to prepare a discursive essay? Cool! Writing a discursive essay will not be so hard when you have a proper essay plan and idea about the essay structure. In general, a discursive essay is a formal essay in which you have to organize and present the ideas in a way that is easy for the readers to understand.

  Here are some essential steps that would guide you to craft an excellent discursive essay.

  • First, read and understand the essay writing guidelines shared by your instructor.
  • Matching your instructor’s instructions, find a perfect discursive essay topic that allows you to share your opinions.
  • Next, research the selected topic and gather the important points or arguments for discussion.
  • After analyzing the topic, prepare a well-structured discursive essay outline that includes sections such as introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • With the help of the prepared essay outline, start preparing the first draft of the essay according to the standard essay structure.
  • Open the essay with a catchy introductory paragraph. The introduction should have an engaging hook statement, background information, and a strong thesis statement relevant to the essay topic.
  • Craft the body paragraphs. The body of the essay should discuss in detail all the major arguments supporting your thesis statement with valid evidence.
  • Wrap up the essay with a conclusion paragraph. The conclusion section should portray your feelings about the topic and list out all the necessary findings.
  • Add a reference page and list out the original source of the ideas you have used in your essay.
  • Before submission, double-check the entire draft of the essay and edit the grammar, spelling, or logical errors in it. The final draft of the essay should be original and free from errors.

  Discursive Essay Writing Tips

  By following all the above-mentioned steps in order, you can come up with a great discursive essay. But besides, we also recommend you stick to the below-mentioned tips when writing a discursive essay because it would help you to fine-tune your essay format and structure.

  
  • Write the discursive essay in a formal third-person speech.
  • When writing this essay, use the right choice of words and formal language conventions.
  • Avoid using emotional writing style and clichés to exaggerate your opinions.
  • Follow the standard essay structure that contains separate sections for the introduction, body, and conclusion.
  • Explain the arguments using a balanced and calm tone.
  • Use well-known real-life examples as proof to explain the main arguments.
  • Never change the original structure of a discursive essay.
  • Add references to all the ideas taken from external sources.
  • Make sure to use transition words in between the paragraphs to maintain a smooth and seamless narration flow.
  • Include persuasive writing techniques such as hyperbole, imagery, metaphors, oxymoron, repetition, and similes at the appropriate places, if needed.

  Tips For Choosing a Good Discursive Essay Topic

  In the discursive essay writing process, topic selection is the first step that you can’t skip. Generally, you won’t find it hard to identify a topic when your instructor provides a list of discursive essay prompts for you to choose from. But the real challenge comes only when you are given the option to choose a topic of your choice.

  For writing a discursive essay, there are numerous topics available on various subjects. Out of them all, based on your interest, you can search and identify any good topic. But the problem here is, when you have many topics, then finding one perfect topic from them would become too hard to handle.

  So, to help you identify the right essay topic, here we have shared some key tips to keep in mind during the discursive essay topic selection phase.

  • Pick a topic in which you have a strong opinion or knowledge.
  • Go with the topic that is convenient for you to write about.
  • Avoid selecting a frequently discussed topic.
  • Identify a topic that is interesting for you and your readers.
  • Choose a controversial topic in which you can raise varying viewpoints or opinions.
  • Select a complex topic with two sides, so that you can extract more arguments that are for and against it.
  • Give preference to the topic that has many valid facts or evidence to prove your arguments.
  • Finalize the essay topic only if it meets your instructor’s essay writing guidelines, if there are any.

  List of Discursive Essay Topics

  Here are some unique discursive essay topic ideas on various disciplines.

  

  If you don’t know what topic to choose for your discursive essay, feel free to access the entire list below and spot any topic that suits you perfectly.

  Best Discursive Essay Topics

  • Do space explorations assure long-term survival?
  • Is the current education system productive?
  • Is English one of the toughest languages to learn?
  • Does reading non-fiction build up the writers’ creativity?
  • Do parents have to reward their children for behaving well?
  • Describe the best kind of parenting observed in your country.
  • Should tobacco production be made illegal across the world?
  • Which is better: reading e-book or paperback?
  • Discuss the effective ways to keep children away from the use of drugs.
  • Are acts of sex and violence acceptable on TV?
  • Is the dependency on technology making us dumber?
  • Is rock music related to Satanism?
  • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using mobile phones.
  • Has blockchain enhanced trade finance in 2018?
  • Can virtual reality turn out to be dangerous for youngsters?
  • Should social media platforms be banned from collecting their users’ data?
  • Do companies have to hire human workers instead of using autonomous machines?
  • Should cell phones be banned from vehicles?
  • Has the internet made society better?
  • Should parents limit screen time for kids?

  Excellent Discursive Essay Topics

  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of globalization?
  • Is it essential to ban steroid takers from sports?
  • Are political authorities involved in illegal activities?
  • Discuss the association between food, fitness, and weight.
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of video games among teenagers?
  • Should schools avoid punishing students that include physical torture?
  • Is society becoming over-regulated?
  • How can students contribute to the safety of nature?
  • Do schools have to ban uniforms?
  • Explain the adverse effects of detox diets.
  • Why are policymakers pushing STEM education nowadays?
  • Should the government ban same-sex marriages?
  • Should there be restrictions on freedom of speech?
  • What are the workplace challenges faced by women?
  • Will robots in the future add to our efficiency?
  • Does every country have to ban capital punishment?
  • Should court proceedings in the UK be documented for television?
  • Is print media almost dead?
  • Is social media having a positive impact on our lives?
  • Is home-schooling good for students?
  • Discuss the need for employees to use social networks at work
  • Cite reasons why internet slang like LOL should be in the dictionary
  • Explain the challenges of over-dependence on technology for modern schools
  • Critique any innovation that has made us lazier than before
  • Discuss why so many college athletes struggle with schoolwork

  Interesting Discursive Essay Topics

  • Is a college education mandatory to be successful in life?
  • Which is better: listening to the mind or the heart?
  • Which is better: watching a movie on the big screen or in your home?
  • Should parents be honest with their kids?
  • Share your views about the marriage of convenience.
  • Is Graffiti an art?
  • Are plastic water bottles spoiling the environment?
  • Are athletes the best role models for children?
  • Is social media presence necessary for a small business to succeed?
  • Should people in Muslim countries develop a religious tolerance?
  • Should public schools have a responsibility to teach social-emotional skills to students?
  • Is the best music founded on social oppression?
  • Should animal sports be banned?
  • Should zoos be abolished?
  • Is cutting hands the only way to stop corruption?
  • Should polio vaccinations be compulsory for every citizen of the United States?
  • Is it good to believe that car seats are effective to keep children safe in car crashes?
  • Should social media sites be banned from collecting their users’ data?
  • Should healthcare professionals be allowed to market and sell drugs to their patients?
  • Should companies switch to hiring employees using autonomous machines?

  Amazing Discursive Essay Prompts

  • Explain the scenario of healthcare and medicine in the 1900s.
  • Is Facebook really needed to stay in touch with each other?
  • Should short dresses be restricted from the workplace?
  • Should offshore drilling be widened?
  • Should famous people in society stay active in politics?
  • Is social media contributing to a more narcissistic society?
  • Is IoT no longer a tool that screws up privacy and security?
  • Is studying Shakespeare outdated in today’s world?
  • Does workplace diversity contribute to increased productivity?
  • Are contemporary people across the world depending too much on technology?
  • Should the average driving age in your country be reduced or increased?
  • Is yoga a more spiritual activity than fasting?
  • Discuss the pros and cons of peer pressure.
  • Are non-vegetarians healthier than vegetarians?
  • Discuss your viewpoints on cryptocurrency.
  • Analyze the future of cryptocurrencies
  • Should there be more parties in the United States?
  • Should college students be restricted from participating in Greek life?
  • Is co-education better than single-sex education?
  • Should college students get to autonomy to choose which professor’s class they attain?

  Read more: Amazing Descriptive Essay Topics and Ideas for Students

  Top Discursive Essay Questions

  • Are tattoos a work of art?
  • Is exercising mandatory for losing weight?
  • Is plastic surgery good?
  • Do parents have to be on the same social network as their children?
  • Is MBA necessary to be successful in business?
  • Are technological advancements making us lazier?
  • Does slavery have a positive influence on world economics?
  • Explain your views about the child-free movement.
  • Should cell phones be allowed in school?
  • What should be the penalty for internet trolling or cyberbullying?
  • Which is better: traditional medicine or alternative medicine?
  • Is texting and texting apps like WhatsApp ruining the English language?
  • Should companies allow employees to take a nap in the afternoon?
  • At what age should a child start doing household chores?
  • Should cheerleading be recognized as a sport and played in the Olympics?
  • Discuss the correlation between wealth and happiness.
  • Which is better: Single-sex School or Co-ed School?
  • Will Google bring about the end of privacy?
  • Is good grammar necessary?
  • Which is worse: White-collar crime or Blue-collar crime?

  Captivating Discursive Essay Ideas

  • Is radio important as a form of media in the 21st century?
  • Discuss the prospect of having a woman president.
  • Discuss the mortgage crisis in the economy.
  • Is it important to heavily regulate newspapers?
  • Is earning money through the lottery a good idea?
  • Does technology isolate the individual?
  • Why an assassination can never be justified?
  • Discuss the challenges in outsourcing to foreign countries.
  • Should rape victims be hanged to death?
  • Explain how the celebrity culture is spoiling the moral values of young teenagers.

  Outstanding Discursive Essay Topics

  • Do social media platforms affect the academic performance of students?
  • Should the government censor rap music culture?
  • Are tattoos and paganism related to each other?
  • Do airlines have to provide a two-seat policy for heavier people?
  • Are dating websites a good place to meet romantic partners?
  • Are drug abuse commercials effective?
  • Is the military’s use of drones an invasion of privacy?
  • Should GMOs be allowed in food?
  • Discuss the negative and positive effects of Blockchain on energy.
  • Why should we prohibit the destruction of rainforests?
  • Do energy drinks cause health risks to teenagers?
  • Should text message acronyms be added to dictionaries?
  • Does the gaming world promote problematic gender and racial stereotypes?
  • Do all adults need eight hours of sleep?
  • Is cheerleading a way to objectify young women?

  Read more: Sample GRE Essay Topics To Practice

  Compelling Discursive Essay Topics

  • Which is better: nuclear families or joint families?
  • Is social media more relevant these days than traditional media?
  • Is it essential to emphasize etiquette in all curriculums?
  • Are apps more of a help or a waste of time?
  • Do contact sports encourage aggression?
  • Do video games have educational value?
  • Is it possible to create a society based on matriarchy?
  • Should schoolchildren learn religion as a part of their curriculum?
  • Is it important to ban beauty contests?
  • Do politicians rely on the media in order to remain in power?

  Incredible Discursive Essay Topics

  • Discuss the prospect of making education a free for all affair
  • Explain how the concept of consumer debt affects purchasing ability.
  • Discuss the correlation between the price of textbooks and education
  • Should zoos, circuses, and aquariums be closed for the violation of animal rights?
  • Discuss the ethical prospect of bringing back extinct species through cloning
  • Is it necessary to abolish the grading system in the education field?
  • Explain the challenges that different countries face when trying to end poaching.
  • Should the case for equal pay for equal work be advanced?
  • Explain how the sitting government perpetuates poverty.
  • Why is it important to allow college students to choose the course they wish to study?

  Wrapping Up

  From the above-recommended list of unique discursive essay topics, without any hesitation, select a topic matching your interest and prepare an extraordinary discursive essay. Haven’t you identified the right discursive essay topic for your assignment yet? Do you need instant discursive essay writing help? Contact us now!

  The skilled essay writers from our team would assist you in preparing a plagiarism-free academic essay as per your requirements on time at a reasonable price. Also, as a part of our online assignment writing service , we will give you 24/7 customer support and unlimited essay revision until you get complete satisfaction.

  Why are you still waiting? Quickly place the order and buy a customized essay that will help you score an A+ grade.

  

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  About author.

  

  Jacob Smith

  I am an Academic Writer and have affection to share my knowledge through posts’. I do not feel tiredness while research and analyzing the things. Sometime, I write down hundred of research topics as per the students requirements. I want to share solution oriented content to the students.

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