Preparing and Writing a Balanced Argument

Creating an effective balanced argument essay involves careful preparation and structured writing. This page outlines the key steps and provides useful phrases for crafting a compelling written discussion.

The three main steps to prepare a balanced argument are:

1. Collect arguments for both sides
2. Rank arguments for each side
3. Decide which side to support

Highlight: These preparatory steps help ensure a well-structured and logically presented argument.

When writing the essay, it's crucial to use appropriate linking words and phrases to guide the reader through your argument. Some useful phrases include:

For ordering arguments:

• Firstly
• Secondly
• Finally
• To begin with

For making contrasts:

• On the one hand... on the other hand
• However
• Even though

For adding arguments:

• Moreover
• Furthermore
• In addition
• Additionally

Vocabulary: "Even though" means "auch wenn" in German, indicating a concession.

For giving reasons:

• Therefore
• Because (of)
• Due to the fact that
• Since

For providing examples:

• For example
• For instance
• To give a striking example

Example: "Imagine..." can be used to introduce a hypothetical scenario that illustrates your point.

For concluding:

• All in all
• As a result
• To conclude
• In conclusion

Highlight: Using these phrases effectively can significantly improve the flow and coherence of your argumentative essay structure.

Remember, the key to a successful balanced argument is presenting both sides fairly before reaching a well-reasoned conclusion. This approach demonstrates critical thinking and the ability to consider multiple perspectives, essential skills in academic writing and beyond.

Introduction to Balanced Arguments

A balanced argument, also known as a written discussion, examines a topic from multiple perspectives before reaching a conclusion. This type of essay is crucial for developing critical thinking and persuasive writing skills.

The structure of a balanced argument typically includes:

1. An introduction that explains the topic and its controversy
2. A main body presenting equal arguments for different viewpoints
3. A conclusion summarizing key points and stating the writer's position

Definition: A balanced argument is a text that deals with a question or topic where different opinions are possible, weighing arguments for various views to form a conclusion.

The introduction serves several important purposes:

• Explaining the question or topic
• Clarifying why different views exist
• Engaging the reader's interest

Highlight: To make the introduction engaging, writers can include background information, personal experiences, or thought-provoking questions.

The main body of a balanced argument follows a specific structure known as the "hourglass structure":

1. Arguments against the writer's opinion (strongest to weakest)
2. A turning point
3. Arguments for the writer's opinion (weakest to strongest)

Example: In a typical balanced argument essay, you would present 3 arguments for each side, totaling 6 arguments in the main body.

Key elements of effective arguments include:

• Clear explanations to convince the reader
• Concrete examples for at least three arguments
• Linking phrases to connect ideas logically

Vocabulary: Concrete examples do not replace explanations but help clarify arguments further.

The conclusion of a balanced argument should:

• Summarize the most important aspects
• Create a frame with the introduction
• State the writer's final opinion
• Offer a compromise if possible

Quote: "In your conclusion you sum up your most important aspects and build a frame (Rahmen) with the introduction."