8 Types of Arguments in Writing, Their Importance and Uses

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When you write essays or argue your point, there are different ways to do it. Knowing the different types of arguments helps you express your ideas better and convince others.

In this blog, we will take a look at eight types of arguments, what they're for, how they're structured, and see examples of each.

So, let's get right into it!

8 Common Types of Arguments & Their Uses

Whether you are working on an argumentative essay or any other type of essay, you should know how to present and defend your argument especially while appealing to authority.

Here are different kinds of arguments with their structure and examples for your understanding:

Classical Argument

The classical argument is like building blocks. You start by introducing your topic, then state the problem, present your argument, refute opposing views, and end by restating your main idea.

This form of argument helps you make a clear and logical case for your point while also considering other viewpoints.

Here is the structure for classical argument:

Introduction: Start by introducing your topic.
Statement of the problem: Explain what the issue is.
Presentation of argument: Share your evidence to prove premises are true.
Refutation of opposing views: Address counterarguments.
Conclusion: Summarize your main points.

Here is an example to help you understand how to present this argument:

Imagine you're writing an essay about the benefits of volunteering in your community. You could start by introducing the concept of volunteering and explaining its importance. Then, you might present evidence of how volunteering can improve mental health and build a sense of community. Addressing potential objections, you could refute the notion that volunteering is time-consuming by providing examples of flexible volunteer opportunities. The truth of the conclusion is to encourage readers to get involved in their communities through volunteering.

Toulmin Argument

The Toulmin argument focuses on providing evidence and reasons to support your claim. It's like building a strong case with evidence. It helps you structure your argument with clear evidence and reasons.

Here is the structure for Toulmin argument:

Claim: State your main point.
Evidence: Provide facts or examples to support your claim.
Warrant: Explain how your evidence supports your claim.
Backing: Offer further support for your warrant.
Qualifier: Acknowledge any limitations or exceptions.
Rebuttal: Address opposing viewpoints.

Take a look at this example to understand how to present your argument:

Suppose you're arguing that school uniforms should be mandatory. You would claim that uniforms improve school safety. You'd provide evidence such as statistics showing a decrease in bullying and violence in schools with uniform policies. Your warrant would explain how uniforms create a sense of equality among students, reducing social tensions. Backing up your warrant, you might cite studies demonstrating improved academic performance in schools with uniform policies. Qualifying your argument, you'd acknowledge that uniforms may not solve all issues related to school safety but argue that they are a step in the right direction.

Rogerian Argument

The Rogerian argument is about finding common ground. It starts by acknowledging opposing views and then looks for solutions that everyone can agree on. It promotes understanding and compromise by considering different perspectives.

Take a look at this structure for Rogerian argument:

Introduction: Begin with a neutral introduction.
Presentation of opposing views: Acknowledge different opinions.
Compromise or solution: Suggest a solution that addresses concerns from both sides.

Here is an example for your understanding:

In a debate about climate change policy, you'd acknowledge the concerns of those who doubt the severity of climate change. Then, you might propose policies that benefit both the environment and the economy, such as investing in renewable energy infrastructure to create jobs. By finding common ground between environmentalists and skeptics, you could promote bipartisan support for sustainable initiatives.

Causal Argument

The causal argument explores cause-and-effect relationships. It looks at why things happen and what results from them. This type of argument helps you understand the reasons behind events and propose solutions.

Here is the structure for the casual argument:

Introduction: Start by introducing the cause-and-effect relationship.
Statement of cause and effect: Explain why something happens and what it leads to.
Evidence supporting causation: Provide evidence to support your claims.
Implications or solutions: Discuss the consequences and suggest ways to address them.

Consider this example to understand how to present your causal argument:

Suppose you're writing about the effects of social media on mental health. You'd explain how excessive use of social media can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression among teenagers. Providing evidence from studies linking social media usage to mental health issues, you'd argue for implementing strategies to promote healthy social media habits, such as setting screen time limits and encouraging face-to-face social interactions.

Rebuttal Argument

The rebuttal argument anticipates objections and addresses them. It's like being ready to defend your point against criticism. It strengthens your argument by addressing potential objections.

Here is the basic structure for the rebuttal argument:

Introduction: Start by introducing your main argument.
Presentation of counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views.
Refutation of counterarguments: Explain why those views are incorrect.
Conclusion: Summarize your main points and reaffirm your argument.

Here is an example of a rebuttal argument:

If you're advocating for stricter gun control laws, you'd address common arguments against gun control, such as the Second Amendment right to bear arms. Refuting the idea that stricter gun laws infringe on constitutional rights, you might cite legal precedents demonstrating that the right to bear arms is not absolute and can be regulated to ensure public safety. By debunking misconceptions about gun control, you strengthen your argument for implementing sensible firearms regulations.

Proposal Argument

The proposal argument suggests a solution to a problem. It's about offering practical ideas to address an issue. It aims to solve real-world problems by proposing actionable solutions.

Take a look at this proposal argument structure:

Introduction: Introduce the problem you're addressing.
Statement of the problem: Explain what needs to be solved.
Proposal for a solution: Present your solution to the problem.
Evidence supporting the proposal: Provide reasons and evidence to support your solution.
Addressing objections: Anticipate and respond to potential objections.
Conclusion: Summarize your proposal and its benefits.

Here is an example to help you understand how to present this type of argument:

Let's say you're proposing a solution to the problem of food insecurity in low-income communities. You might suggest implementing community gardens in urban areas to provide fresh produce to residents. Supporting your proposal with evidence of successful community garden projects in other cities, you'd address potential objections such as limited space by proposing vertical gardening techniques. By offering a practical solution to address food insecurity, you advocate for improving access to nutritious food for underserved populations.

Evaluation Argument

The evaluation argument judges the merits of something based on specific criteria. It's about assessing the quality or value of a subject. It helps you form judgments and make informed decisions about a topic.

Take a look at the structure to understand what an evaluation argument includes:

Introduction: Introduce the subject you're evaluating.
Criteria for evaluation: Explain the standards you'll use to judge the subject.
Evaluation of the subject based on criteria: Assess the subject based on your criteria.
Conclusion: Summarize your evaluation and make a final judgment.

Consider this example to understand how to present an evaluation argument in your writing:

Suppose you're evaluating a new restaurant. You'd establish criteria such as food quality, service, and ambiance. Assessing the restaurant based on these criteria, you might praise the delicious food, attentive staff, and cozy atmosphere. Concluding your evaluation, you'd recommend the restaurant to others based on its overall positive experience.

Narrative Argument

The narrative argument uses storytelling to make a point. It's about sharing personal experiences or stories to support your argument. It engages emotions and provides relatable examples to support your point.

Take a look at this narrative argument structure:

Introduction: Introduce the topic or issue you're addressing.
Narrative illustrating the argument: Share a personal story or experience related to the topic.
Analysis of the narrative's relevance: Explain how your story supports your argument.
Conclusion: Summarize your main points and emphasize the significance of your narrative.

Here is an example of writing a narrative argument:

If you're arguing for stricter penalties for animal cruelty, you might share a personal story about rescuing an abused animal and witnessing the emotional and physical trauma it endured. Reflecting on your experience, you could emphasize the truth of the premise that the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions and advocating for stronger animal protection laws. By sharing your narrative, you evoke empathy and illustrate the urgency of addressing animal welfare issues.

Expert Tip

You can’t write compelling arguments without a proper structure. Consider this blog on argumentative essay outline to understand how to present your arguments properly.

So there you have it!

Understanding these different types of arguments helps you effectively communicate your ideas and persuade others.

Whether you're writing an essay, participating in a debate, or discussing important issues, knowing how to use these argumentative strategies can make you a more convincing and influential communicator.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between deductive and inductive arguments?

A deductive argument starts with a general idea and leads to a specific conclusion, aiming to be certain. An inductive argument uses specific examples to make a general conclusion, but it is not always certain.

How many types of fallacies in an argument can there be?

There are many fallacies, but common ones include ad hominem, straw man, false dilemma, slippery slope, and circular reasoning. Each one shows a mistake in reasoning and presenting the true or false.

What is the difference between formal fallacies vs informal fallacies?

Informal fallacies are errors in the content or context of an argument, often involving misleading language or irrelevant information.

Formal fallacies are mistakes in the logical structure of an argument, where the conclusion doesn't follow from the premises.

WRITTEN BY

Barbara P, Literature, Marketing

Barbara's qualifications include a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university and extensive experience working practically in the medical field. With her research experience on various health issues, she is skilled in writing papers that offer new perspectives on healthcare topics. Many of her works have been published across multiple renowned publications.

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