How to formulate a good argument?

[Danny JMC]

Do a heap of research on your specific topic and see where the information takes you. Based on that research, formulate an argument and several points (depending on your word length) that create your argument (ie; what made you formulate your argument from the research).

Your introduction should begin with brief background on the topic and why it is important to scholarly debate. Then go into a brief outline of where the essay is going to go (whose works you have used in your research, the points you will be making), and finally conclude the introduction with your argument thesis.

The body of your essay will be created through the use of the points you are making. These points should solidly back up your argument. For example if you're arguing that there is an extreme difference in background of low and upper class, then one of your points could be education and draw on findings of scholars who have researched the education levels of the two classes. Each paragraph should be a few hundred words and thus the word limit will influence how many points you make.

Your conclusion will sum up all your points and give the reader the reason why you are concluding [your argument]. Your rationale should be logical, concise and reasonable.

IMPORTANT NOTE: No sweeping statements! You can't just state some bullshit claim and not have it backed up by a credible source. Every point you make has to be based on a credible scholars work.

Also, I like to use rhetorical questions. They sound smart and are like lecturer crack.

Just a thought or two.