Review and Improve Your Draft

An effective argumentative essay makes its claim in such a manner that readers will understand an issue in a particular way, provides plausible and well-supported appeals to accept that claim, addresses likely counterarguments, and avoids the traps posed by logical fallacies and other forms of argument that lack integrity. Few writers can fully address all these elements in a first draft, so don’t expect to produce a finished essay in one sitting. Set aside enough time to review your draft and to revise it at least once. Allowing at least a day or two between completing your draft and reviewing it makes it easier to recognize opportunities for improvement and to clarify your thinking.