How to Write a Discursive Essay – A Comprehensive Guide

What Is a Discursive Essay?

Discursive essays are a form of academic papers students in the United Kingdom need to submit. These submissions test a student’s thinking skills, knowledge, and writing abilities. Essentially, the main purpose of a discursive essay is to create discussion around a particular topic. Thus, students writing them need to join in by having a conversation about particular issues or problems.

However, it’s important to note these essays serve a larger role. They are not simply to test your ability to produce opinions and ideas. Instead, the discursive essay highlights students’ ability to use and gather arguments. Therefore, the task isn’t simply theoretical. But it also works as a practical examination for students.

Students may need to deal with three distinct types of discursive essays:
• Papers using a “for and against” argumentative style
• Essays focusing on student topic opinions
• Submissions with propositions and solutions to problems

These essays can differ. But the end goal is always going to be the same. Students must share their options and discuss the topics using the right arguments. However, it’s not always easy. This is because there are many steps students can take to make their discursive essays stand out. These include structure, format, and more. Therefore, to help you understand how to write a discursive essay, our team has compiled a simple list of things you can follow. These include helping you choose topics for discursive essays and more.

First, we must go back to a few basics before working our way up to an A+.

What is Discussed in a Discursive Essay

Summarising what is discussed in a discursive essay can be challenging for the average student. But fortunately, our team has all the answers.

Discursive essays, as the name suggests, focus on discussing specific topics. They explore them in detail, allowing students to focus in-depth while providing multiple perspectives to the reader. As a result, you always give readers a balanced perspective on opposing views.

However, these essays are not the same as argumentative essays. While they do follow and discuss specific arguments, they are not written in a persuasive style. Instead, the objective is to be as unbiased as possible. Thus, allowing readers to receive a holistic perspective on a given topic.

How to Write a Discursive Essay?

Most students struggle with essay writing as they do not know how to write a discursive essay using the right structure. As a result, most tend to score lower grades in the long run. But fortunately, our team has the right structure to help even the weakest students form clear and concise writing.
So, let’s go over each section of discursive essays. These can be divided into three sections: introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Introduction: How do you start a discursive essay?

The beginning of your discursive essay does not need to be very long. On the contrary, it takes up a very small section of the overall paper. But it still holds immense value and importance. The introduction helps readers understand the scope of your work. Therefore, you must create an intro that carefully guides and prepares your audience.
Students need to focus on compressing and summarising the general idea of their essay into a couple of lines. Discursive essay introductions deliver the relevance of issues and problems to the public. Thus, sparking interest in what your essay is about.

Main Body: The Arguments

After the discursive essay introduction, students will move on to the bulk of the work — the main body paragraphs. Here it’s important to analyse everything to define your work’s focus and main principles.

The first paragraph includes the author’s opinion on the topic. It’s where every student needs to start. After that, we move on the laying out all arguments and counter-arguments. These are essential for audiences to see each side of the topic. In addition, every paragraph needs to have a topic sentence.

Students should gather all the necessary data and information on the matter. And it’s important to use it with clear and reliable sources like literature, statistics, personal examples, and more.

Lastly, students should observe the work of other skilled writers. Focusing on their examples makes it easier to learn how they list their arguments. Thus, helping you understand how you can present them in your work.

Once students understand this step clearly, they can move on and learn how to write a conclusion for discursive essay topics. But it’s important to note that the main body is what leads into the next part of the structure. Thus, a weak body section will result in a poor conclusion.

How to Write a Discursive Essay Conclusion: Tips

The last part of your discursive essay is the conclusion. And just like any other ending, it needs to leave the reader with the right impact. If not, they’ll simply write off your work as poor quality. The conclusion functions as a simple framing mechanism. It essentially assists with framing the main parts of your discursive essay.
Therefore, writers need to focus on summarising previous data or points for the readers. These can include any main focus areas of the discussion or even personal opinions. However, we recommend students follow a simple work ethic by not including or introducing new information.

Additionally, the purpose of a discursive essay conclusion is to encourage future discussions amongst readers. After all, what happens after they read counts the most. There is no better compliment than a reader that wishes to research your topic further.

Lastly, some authors prefer to include predictions about the essay topic. However, all assumptions need to be based on the relevant data. That covers conclusions. So, what’s next? Surely there has to be more students can do to improve their discursive essay writing?

That’s right! There is more students can do. So, let’s focus next on linking words.

Discursive Essay Linking Words (Choice of Words)

There are several arguments you need to present in a discursive essay. Therefore, a key element of understanding how to write a discursive essay is presenting them using the right words. That’s why our team will explore how you can use or improve your choice of words for the biggest impact.

We will start with linking ideas. These words will usually appear at the start of a new paragraph. But they can also link other ideas within the paragraph as well. For example, try checking out the following:

Type of link
Following the same line of thought

Example:
Furthermore, in addition, likewise, also, similarly, moreover. Students can also number their points using “firstly, secondly, etc.”

Type of link
Conclusion and Summary

Example:
Thus, therefore, accordingly, consequently, in retrospect, in conclusion, hence, etc.

Type of link
Idea Contrast

Example:
Yet, nevertheless, on the other hand, however, although, conversely, on the contrary, and otherwise.

Type of link
Further Examples

Example:
Because, since, for instance, for example, despite, so that, accordingly, if, though, and unless.

Types of Discursive Essay Writing

There are many forms of discursive essay writing students need to pay attention to when learning how to write a discursive essay. Fortunately, our team is here to discuss a few major kinds so students can work smarter. Check the following kinds of discursive essays you can write.

Opinion Essay

The first style of discursive essay writing is the opinion essay. And as the name suggests, this requires the author’s opinion on a particular issue. Students will need to present them in the introductory paragraph. But it’s important to note that it should be clear while also following the right reasoning with supporting examples. Moreover, students should also add the opposing argument before their conclusion.

In the end, you will need to explain to readers the reasons behind your opinion. Thus, helping them see why your point of view should be considered.

For and Against Essay

Our second style is the for and against essay. These provide the audience with a thorough debate on the topic. Moreover, it includes both the writer and opposing points of view. Each point will need a detailed and descriptive discussion that objectively discusses the core elements.

In addition, the introductory paragraph should put the issue at the centre of attention. And students should also rely on presenting the main body through a combination of present examples, reasons, and justified arguments.
Remember, this form of essay writing will include a healthy balance of opinion and arguments.

Essay Suggesting Solution to a Problem

Lastly, students can follow the final kind of discursive essay. This type focuses on suggesting a solution to a problem. First, it discusses the issue. Then, it analyses its causes and consequences. However, students should not forget the main objective of suggesting a solution. That’s why the main body needs to include and offer suggestions for possible solutions to the problem. In addition, it should also state potential consequences and expected results. Finally, we conclude. Students need to summarise their opinions at the end directly.

Difference Between Discursive Essays and Argumentative Essays

Students working on learning to write a discursive essay need to distinguish between discursive and argumentative essays clearly. This is because the two are very different despite following the same concepts. However, most students tend to overlook the differences. As a result, they score poor grades due to writing the other using similar styles or formats.
Therefore, we have a list of differences for students learning about discursive essays. Ensure you read each one carefully to analyse how these differences factor into your writing.

Discursive Essays

1: All discursive essay writing follows an objective style and approach.
2: Discursive essay writing is generally a neutral and free-for-all discussion.
3: Discursive essay writing structure is less rigid.
4: Discursive essay writing allows students to discuss a topic broadly and thoughtfully.
5: A discursive essay will begin with an unbiased introduction to the issue or topic.

Argumentative Essays

1: Argumentative essay writing uses a persuasive style and format to convince.
2: Argumentative essay writing balances the thesis and anti-thesis to support or refute your stand.
3: Argumentative essay writing follows a clear and concise format and structure.
4: Argumentative essay writing forcefully and purposefully present a set of reasons for why one should adopt one point of view.
5: An argumentative essay will always begin with a claim statement or thesis statement

How to Make Your Discursive Essay Perfect?

Writing an effective discursive essay can be difficult. But fortunately for most students, our team has a few tips they can follow. We have professional authors to write the perfect discursive essay. Try using a few of the following tips:

• Use formal 3rd person speech
• Imagine they have to try another person’s shoe to collect only fair arguments
• Create a special map of notices to clarify your own points
• Take good and well-known examples from real life to support arguments
• Add references to all borrowed ideas
• Finish the paper at least a day before the deadline to have additional time for editing

With the above tips, students should be able to execute the perfect discursive essay. However, there are a few pitfalls students should be aware of when writing. These include the following:

• Overusing generalisations, cliches, and personal examples
• Informal language
• Emotional writing styles
• Insisting on standing correct

How to Plan a Discursive Essay

The first step to writing your discursive essay is using planning. Why? Because it allows you to focus on specific elements while also creating a road map for your workflow. As a result, you won’t find it so difficult to write and submit your essay.
Most students forget that planning is a vital stage of their assignments and essays. Most tend to start writing without much forethought simply. Unfortunately, this leads to lower grades and bad writing. That’s why our team is bringing you a guide for planning your discursive essay. Using the steps below, students can learn what components matter when learning how to write a discursive essay.

Choose a topic you’re passionate about

Most teachers and professors can instantly tell whether a student is passionate about their work. That’s why it’s important to pick a writing topic you’re actually interested in. After all, you want to show readers that you are interested in what you’re discussing. Therefore, our writers recommend choosing a topic that allows you to pour your passion into your work.

Then, you’ll be able to add more effort to each line you write.

For more discursive topic help, students can visit our website to view samples and consult our experts.
Do your research.

The next step is doing all your discursive essay research beforehand. All discursive essays include researching topics, literature, issues, problems and more. These lend credibility to your writing. Thus, allowing the reader to understand using real world events.

We recommend students conduct this research before they ever begin writing. You won’t need to go back and forth between the two tasks. Instead, it’ll simply be easy to focus on the writing aspect of your discursive essay. So, try focusing on the research element during the planning stages of your work.

Write the introduction

After that, all students need to focus on the introductory paragraphs of the dissertation. After all, planning is a vital part of a good introduction. Therefore, our writers recommend using the following steps: The general introductory statement, thesis statements, and order of arguments.

This will help readers see the clear direction you plan to take with your discursive essay. Moreover, it will briefly expose them to the concepts and arguments you are about to discuss. It also provides them with background about the topic of choice.
Students can view the introductory paragraphs in our sample essays for more help.

Present both sides of the argument fairly and objectively.
This section is dedicated to the main body paragraphs of your discursive essay. When planning them, students need to focus on a few elements. For example, the topic sentence. However, it’s also important to add supporting ideas that help readers follow along with your claims. Students can also present opposing arguments from another perspective.
However, it’s important to convey both sides fairly and objectively. Thus, allowing the readers to make up their minds or form their own opinions.

For more support with the main body, call our services now!

Write the conclusion

Students cannot write their conclusion without focusing on the planning aspects. That’s why our team suggests following a format that allows you to visualise your final paragraph’s potential. So, here’s what you can follow according to our writers:

Students need to do three main things when understanding how to write a discursive essay conclusion. Restate and summarise what you have mentioned before, offer general conclusions, and add a final concluding statement that ties everything together.

These three elements of a conclusion will help your audience understand what comes next. They will be able to take their own approach to further research.

Proofreading and editing

Finally, ensure you set aside enough time to focus on rechecking your discursive essay during the planning phase. This is because proofreading and editing are vital components of scoring an A+ grade. Without doing both, students will suffer from poor essay presentations.

So, focus on setting aside enough time first. Then, complete the proofreading and editing process. After that, you’ll have the perfect discursive essay on your hands. However, if you cannot dedicate time to proofreading and editing, you can contact us and get support from our staff. We have editors and proofreaders for the best presentation.

Basic Do’s of a Discursive Essay – Guide for Students

Our writers have a basic guide to make things easier for you. Here’s what you need to know about the basics of a discursive essay. We hope the following tips help you learn how to write a discursive essay.

1. Writing in a formal, impersonal style
2. Introducing each point in a separate paragraph
3. Using topic sentences for each paragraph
4. Writing well-developed paragraphs
5. Giving reasons and examples for each point
6. Using sequencing
7. Using linking words and phrases
8. Making references to other sources and making sure that you follow the proper citation style
9. Identifying used sources

What should students avoid doing when writing a discursive essay? Use our guide below.

Basic Don’ts of a Discursive Essay – Guide for Students

Just like there are things you need to do with your discursive essay, there are also several things students must avoid. That’s why our team has a secondary guide for students to help them avoid making silly mistakes. Try going over each point and avoid adding them to your essay.

1. Do not write as if you’re writing an argumentative essays
2. Avoid using overly generalised statements
3. Never use emotional writing to convey your points
4. Stay away from informal language or terms
5. Do not forget to recheck your work
6. Avoid straying off-topic with your arguments
7. Including new information in your conclusion is a bad idea
8. Do not avoid the planning phase of your discursive essay
9. Don’t skip seeking help if you need it
10. Do not ignore your institution’s requirements

Try following the two guides to ensure your paper has the best chance at an A+ grade.

What Tone to Use in a Discursive Essay?
Without tone, essays are useless to write. That’s why so many teachers and professors stress its importance. Unfortunately, many students still don’t know what tone to use when writing an essay, let alone as important as discursive. However, our team is here for you. We know students need help with understanding the tone of their discursive essays. So, what should it be?

The answer is balanced. When learning to write a discursive essay, students must focus on creating a balance with their work. Thus, a balanced tone makes the most sense.

Writing Style for Discursive Essays

They say style is everything when it comes to writing. Therefore, even the brightest students must focus on learning how to use it. And that’s especially important if they’re trying to score an A+ grade. But what helps students learn how to write a discursive essay using style? And what style is the most important?

Our team recommends every student use sample essays to observe how experts implement style in their discursive essays. And as for what type of style should you use? That’s simple! Students must use a formal yet impersonal style to clearly and accurately present their work.

Block and Alternating Approaches

Students learning how to write a discursive essay will need to understand how they need to present viewpoints. Thus, it comes down to the two main approaches we will focus on, the block and alternating methods. First, we will start with the block method. It’s very simple. All positive elements are in one block of text. Similarly, all negative in another.

On the other hand, we have the alternating method—an approach where students present one point followed by discussion and all surrounding views. Then, move on to another point and repeat the process.

Here is a breakdown of each approach’s method and how many paragraphs you can add to each.

The Block Approach

• The Introduction
• The Main Body
• Paragraph Two – All ‘for’ viewpoints on the various points
• Paragraph Three – All ‘against’ viewpoints on the various points
• Paragraph Four – Your comments on these viewpoints
• The Conclusion

The Alternating Approach

• The Introduction
• The Main Body
• Paragraph Two – Point 1 with views for and against
• Paragraph Three – Point 2 with views for and against
• Paragraph Four – Your comments on these viewpoints
• The Conclusion

Conclusion

Irrespective of how you organise your arguments, you should always allow yourself to shine. Thus, resulting in a more compelling paper despite disagreeing with certain standpoints. These practices make for a more exciting read. And it even makes your work sound more convincing.

Try experimenting with the two approaches above to write an amazing discursive essay. And if you still find it hard, speak to our consultants. They’ll guide you in understanding how to write a discursive essay.
How to Write a Discursive Essay (Example)

Discursive Essay Example

The usage of animals in scientific and medical research is one subject people hold strongly contrasting views on. It is a debate which elicits a very strong emotion. Thus, animal rights activists resort to trespassing, violence, death threats and hunger strikes in their mission to end this practice. Therefore, I will consider both sides of the argument in this essay.
Those for animal experimentation argue that it is a means to greater ends. This is because, with this view, reducing human suffering and death is our priority. However, the prevention of animal suffering and death is secondary to that. As a result, if there is a likelihood that an experiment will result in important medical breakthroughs that reduce human suffering or death, then it is justifiable to allow animal suffering.

In addition, it may also be argued that, in practice, it is possible to keep animal suffering to an absolute minimum. Those conducting the research should aspire to the highest levels of animal welfare in their laboratories. It can be done by using an anaesthetic wherever possible and keeping animals clean, healthy, and comfortable. Indeed, the Animals Act (1986) goes further and enforces the premise that researchers must use animals with the lowest pain sensitivity and experiments must minimise pain levels that can occur (Murnaghan, 2010). Thus, there is an argument for the possibility of conducting animal experimentation without being cruel to animals.

Moreover, experience has shown invaluable advances in medicine by experimenting on animals. Throughout the 20th century, research that used several live animals resulted in numerous medical advances such as antibiotics like penicillin, organ transplant techniques and the whooping cough vaccine (2007, Coalition for Medical Research). Therefore, it may be argued that banning animal experimentation may negatively affect advances in modern medicine.

Some of the Best Discursive Essay Topics Include:

Writing a discursive essay is hard enough as it is. And when you add choosing a topic to the mix, it pushes most students over the edge. Fortunately, our team has a list of easy-access discursive essay topics that result in the best scoring chances.

1: Discussing the employee’s need to use social networks at work
2: Cite reasons why internet slang should be in the dictionary
3: Discuss why many athletes at college struggle with school work
4: Explain the challenges of technology overdependence for modern schools
5: Critique any innovation that has resulted in us being lazier than before
6: Explain some important things that businesses can learn from their employee complaints
7: Discuss the impacts of a “one car per family” policy
8: Explain listening to your favourite music and its healing capacity
9: Discuss the censorship’s extent and why it is important for TV channels
10: Discuss challenges that China poses as a supposed superpower
11: Explain why people say that smoking helps make acquaintances
12: Discuss some reasons why attending student lectures should be optional
13: Discuss which conflicts make a relationship better and to what extent
14: Discuss whether students and teachers should interact on social media
15: Explain some misgivings we have about first impressions, and their impact on our interactions
16: Explain why energy drinks seem as bad as alcoholic drinks
17: Explain how to make sure that students online do not cheat
18: Discuss why virtual reality should not be easily accessible to young kids
19: Discuss whether peacekeeping missions result in peace for countries, or are they are just an excuse for invading countries to create more war than there was in the first place
20: Explain treatments that should be available to hyperactive kids

Final Thoughts and tips

In the end, these discursive essays will always be challenging. They’re hard to write, edit, and follow a complicated style and format process that make completing them impossible for most students. Thus, it’s easy to see why many receive lower than expected grades over time.

Fortunately, our writers did bring you some of their insider knowledge to elevate the core strengths of your discursive essay. Therefore, we hope you were able to understand the intricate complexities as well as the proposed solutions. Each of these is designed to target specific aspects of how to write a discursive essay. As a quick recap, we provided you with a few notable tools. It included everything, from the fundamentals to the approaches and even topics you can use.

So, try implementing these to steadily improve your grade with your next discursive essay writing task. And if you struggle, that’s okay! We know completing coursework while trying to improve your grades is tough. That’s why our experts provide tools like the ones above to aid your growth as a student.

However, if you still feel uncertain, we have one final tip. What is it? That’s easy. Contact our team of discursive essay writers! We’ll help you. Our writers know exactly the course of action you must take to score well on your discursive essay. So, call us now and get good results.