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Opinion Essays – Step-by-Step Instructions

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Introduction

What makes an opinion essay truly compelling? Why do some essays resonate while others fall flat? The art of opinion writing is not just about sharing your thoughts; it is about persuading, informing, and engaging your readers. Today, we will learn all about crafting an impactful opinion essay.

So, how do you transform your opinions into powerful words that leave a lasting impression? Let us dive in and discover the keys to success in opinion writing.

What Is an Opinion Essay?

An opinion essay is a written work where an author expresses their viewpoint on a particular topic or issue. Unlike other essays that primarily rely on factual information and objective analysis, an opinion essay is inherently subjective, emphasizing the writer's beliefs, feelings, and perspectives.

Opinion essays are prevalent in various contexts, from academic assignments and journalism to blogs and editorials. They serve as a platform for individuals to express themselves, share their unique perspectives, and contribute to meaningful discussions on various subjects.

What Kind of Student Faces an Opinion Essay?

Let us explore the characteristics and educational contexts where opinion essays are commonly encountered:

1. High School Students:

High school students are frequently introduced to opinion essays as part of their English or language arts curriculum. These essay help students develop fundamental writing skills and the ability to express their viewpoints coherently. Opinion essays at this level often revolve around personal experiences, literary analysis, or current events, fostering critical thinking and communication skills.

2. College and University Students:

College and university students encounter opinion essays across various disciplines, from humanities and social sciences to natural sciences and engineering. In college, opinion essays become more sophisticated, requiring students to delve into scholarly research, cite academic sources, and formulate well-supported arguments. These essays are instrumental in promoting research skills, academic writing proficiency, and the ability to synthesize complex information.

3. Graduates and Postgraduates:

Graduate and postgraduate students frequently engage in opinion essays as part of their coursework and research activities. At this level, opinion essays may take the form of thesis proposals, research position papers, or responses to academic debates. These essays serve as essential paraphrasing tool for contributing to the scholarly discourse within their fields.

4. Law Students:

Law students encounter opinion essays in the form of legal memoranda, case briefs, or persuasive arguments. These essays hone their legal writing and argumentative essay topics skills.

In the legal profession, constructing well-reasoned opinions is vital, as lawyers often need to advocate for their clients' positions.

5. Journalism and Communication Students:

Students pursuing journalism or communication degrees frequently write opinion pieces, such as editorials and op-eds. Opinion essays in this context train students to effectively convey their thoughts to a broader audience while adhering to ethical and journalistic standards.

6. Political Science and Philosophy Students:

Political science or philosophy students delve into opinion essays as they explore complex political ideologies, ethical dilemmas, and philosophical debates. Opinion essays in these disciplines require students to analyze and critically evaluate different perspectives, fostering a deep understanding of complex issues.

7. MBA and Business Students:

MBA and business students encounter opinion essays in business ethics, strategic management, and decision-making courses. These essays sharpen their ability to make informed, ethical business judgments and communicate their rationale effectively.

8. ESL and Non-Native English Speakers:

Students learning English as a second language (ESL) or non-native English speakers may face opinion essays to enhance their language proficiency. Opinion essays help ESL students develop language skills while expressing their thoughts on diverse essay topics .

What Are the Requirements of an Opinion Essay?

Here are the key elements that should be present in an opinion essay:

1. Clear and Concise Thesis Statement:

Every opinion essay should start with a well-defined thesis statement. This statement is the heart of your essay, succinctly summarizing your main argument or viewpoint. It should be placed in the introduction, typically towards the end of that section.

 2. Introduction:

• The introduction serves as the opening of your essay, capturing the reader's attention and providing essential context for the topic.
• Begin with a compelling hook, which can be a thought-provoking question, an interesting fact, a relevant quote, or a brief anecdote.
• Clearly present your thesis statement, outlining your opinion on the issue.
• Provide a brief overview of the points you intend to discuss in the essay's body, setting the reader's expectations.

3. Well-Structured Body Paragraphs:

• The body of your opinion essay should consist of several well-organized paragraphs, each dedicated to a specific aspect or supporting point related to your thesis.
• Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence directly connecting to your thesis statement.
• Offer substantial evidence, examples, statistics, or personal experiences to support your viewpoint. Ensure the evidence is relevant and convincing.
• Maintain a logical flow between paragraphs, using transitional words and phrases to guide the reader seamlessly through your arguments.

4. Acknowledgment of Counterarguments:

• A robust opinion essay acknowledges opposing viewpoints or counterarguments. This demonstrates your ability to consider alternative perspectives and strengthens your own argument.
• Counterarguments can be addressed within the body paragraphs or in a dedicated paragraph where you present, discuss, and ultimately refute opposing views.

5. Conclusion:

• The conclusion should serve as the closing of your essay, summarizing your thesis statement and the main points presented in the body.
• However, avoid mere repetition of the introduction. Instead, offer a broader perspective, leaving the reader with something to contemplate, such as a thought-provoking idea, a call to action, or a suggestion for further exploration.
• Conclude your essay with a sense of closure, ensuring your final words leave a lasting impression.

6. Evidence and Examples:

Support your opinion with credible evidence, such as research findings, assignment expert opinions, or real-life examples. This lends credibility to your argument and makes it more persuasive.

7. Proper Citation:

If your essay includes external sources or references, ensure proper citation following the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Correct citation is essential to maintain academic integrity and prevent plagiarism.

8. Editing and Proofreading:

• Before finalizing your opinion essay, perform a thorough edit and proofread. Check for grammar and spelling errors, as well as clarity and coherence.
• Consider seeking peer, instructor, or professional editor feedback to ensure your essay is polished and error-free.

Opinion Essay Topics

Here are ten broad subject areas for opinion essay topics

1. Technology:

• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
• Is Social Media Beneficial or Harmful for Society?
• The Ethics of Data Privacy in the Digital Age
• Should Technology Be Used in Education More Extensively?
• Is Online Learning as Effective as Traditional Education?
• The Role of Technology in Solving Environmental Issues
• Are Smartphones a Necessity or a Distraction in Daily Life?
• The Pros and Cons of Video Games for Children
• Is Technology Making Us More or Less Connected to Each Other?
• The Future of Work in a World Dominated by Automation

2. Education:

• Standardized Testing: Does It Accurately Measure Student Abilities?
• The Impact of Homeschooling on Children's Development
• Should Schools Implement Uniform Dress Codes?
• The Role of Arts Education in Academic Curriculum
• Are College Degrees Still Worth the Investment?
• The Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Education
• Should Schools Teach Financial Literacy as a Mandatory Subject?
• The Influence of Teachers on Students' Success
• Does Homework Enhance or Impede Learning?
• The Importance of Inclusive Education for Special Needs Students

3. Environment:

• The Responsibility of Individuals in Combating Climate Change
• Should Plastic Bags and Bottles Be Banned to Reduce Pollution?
• The Impact of Deforestation on Biodiversity
• Renewable Energy Sources vs. Fossil Fuels: Which is Better?
• Should Governments Implement Carbon Tax to Reduce Emissions?
• The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research
• Is Sustainable Living Achievable for Everyone?
• The Role of Urban Planning in Creating Eco-Friendly Cities
• Are Electric Vehicles the Future of Transportation?
• The Effectiveness of Recycling Programs in Reducing Waste

4. Politics and Government:

• The Importance of Voting in a Democracy
• Is Political Correctness Beneficial or Restrictive to Free Speech?
• Should Term Limits Be Imposed on Elected Officials?
• The Role of Social Media in Shaping Political Opinions
• Universal Healthcare vs. Private Healthcare: Pros and Cons
• The Impact of Immigration Policies on Society
• Should Affirmative Action Still Be Implemented?
• Is Political Polarization a Threat to Democracy?
• The Influence of Lobbying and Special Interest Groups on Politics
• Should the Voting Age Be Lowered or Raised?

5. Health and Wellness:

• The Pros and Cons of a Vegetarian or Vegan Diet
• The Impact of Fast Food on Public Health
• Should Vaccination Be Mandatory for All Children?
• The Benefits and Risks of Legalizing Marijuana
• The Role of Mental Health Education in Schools
• Is Healthcare a Basic Human Right?
• The Ethics of Genetic Engineering and Designer Babies
• The Impact of Stress on Physical and Mental Health
• Is Alternative Medicine a Valid Alternative to Conventional Medicine?
• The Influence of Advertising on Unhealthy Eating Habits

6. Social Issues:

• The Role of Social Media in Promoting Body Image Issues
• The Impact of Income Inequality on Society
• Is Capital Punishment Ethical or Inhumane?
• The Importance of Gender Equality in the Workplace
• Should Animal Testing Be Banned for Cosmetic Products?
• The Ethics of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide
• The Influence of Celebrity Culture on Young People
• Is Online Bullying a Serious Threat to Mental Health?
• The Role of Government in Combating Homelessness

7. Economics:

• The Effects of Inflation on Consumer Purchasing Power
• Is Globalization Beneficial or Harmful to Developing Countries?
• The Impact of Minimum Wage Laws on Employment
• The Role of Cryptocurrency in Modern Finance
• Should Governments Provide Universal Basic Income?
• The Ethics of Corporate Social Responsibility
• The Pros and Cons of Trade Tariffs
• Is Economic Growth Sustainable in the Long Term?
• The Influence of Consumerism on Environmental Degradation
• The Role of Government Regulation in Preventing Financial Crises

8. Science and Technology Ethics:

• The Ethical Implications of Human Gene Editing
• Should Artificial Intelligence Have Legal Rights?
• The Use of Facial Recognition Technology: Privacy vs. Security
• The Dangers and Benefits of Biotechnology Advancements
• The Ethics of Cloning Animals for Human Consumption
• Is Privacy Invasion Justified in the Name of National Security?
• The Impact of 3D Printing on Intellectual Property Rights
• Should Autonomous Weapons Be Banned?
• The Ethical Considerations of Using CRISPR for Genetic Enhancement
• Is Space Exploration Worth the Cost and Environmental Impact?

9. Culture and Society:

• The Influence of Pop Culture on Young People's Behavior
• Should Cultural Appropriation Be Condemned or Celebrated?
• The Importance of Preserving Indigenous Languages and Cultures
• The Role of Music in Shaping Social and Political Movements
• Should Museums Return Stolen Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin?
• The Impact of Reality TV Shows on Society's Perception of Reality
• Is Online Dating a Positive or Negative Trend in Modern Relationships?
• The Ethics of Cultural Tourism and Its Impact on Local Communities
• Should Schools Teach More Diverse History and Literature?
• The Role of Literature and Art in Promoting Social Change

10. Ethics and Morality:

• The Ethics of Physician-Assisted Suicide for Terminal Patients
• Is Lying Ever Justified in Moral Dilemmas?
• The Role of Religion in Shaping Personal Morality
• The Ethics of Animal Rights: Should Animals Have Legal Personhood?
• Is Forgiveness a Virtue or a Weakness?
• The Moral Implications of Cloning Humans
• The Ethics of Nuclear Weapons and Deterrence
• Should Government Surveillance Be Permitted for National Security?
• The Role of Free Will in Determining Moral Responsibility
• Is It Ethical to Experiment on Animals for Scientific Research?

Opinion Essay Structure

Here is a breakdown of the essential elements:

1. Introduction:

• Hook: Begin with an attention-grabbing hook, such as a question, fact, quote, or anecdote, to engage the reader's interest.
• Thesis Statement:  Present your clear and concise thesis statement. This statement is the foundation of your essay and encapsulates your main argument or opinion on the topic.
• Preview:  Offer a brief overview of the main points or arguments you will discuss in the body of the essay. This sets the reader's expectations.

2. Body Paragraphs:

• Topic Sentences: Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence that relates directly to your thesis statement.
• Supporting Evidence: Provide evidence, examples, statistics, or expert opinions that support each argument. Ensure that the evidence is relevant and compelling.
• Transition Sentences: Use transitional words and phrases to guide the reader smoothly from one point to the next. This creates coherence and logical flow.
• Counterarguments:  Address opposing viewpoints within the body of your essay, demonstrating your ability to evaluate different perspectives critically. This adds depth and persuasiveness to your argument.

3. Conclusion:

• Restate Thesis: Restate your thesis statement and summarize your main argument.
• Summarize Main Points: Summarize the key points or arguments you've presented in the essay's body.
• Broaden Perspective: Move beyond mere repetition of the introduction. Offer a broader perspective on the topic, leaving the reader with something to contemplate, such as the significance of your opinion or a call to action.
• Closing Thoughts: End with a thought-provoking closing thought, question, or statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Opinion Essay Examples

Here is an example for you -

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Social media has become an integral part of our lives in today's digital age. While it offers various benefits, like staying connected with friends and accessing information, its influence on mental health has been a growing concern. This essay explores the impact of social media on mental well-being, arguing that while it has some advantages, it can also have detrimental effects.

Introduction:

The introduction provides a clear thesis statement: "This essay argues that social media has both positive and negative impacts on mental health." It engages the reader's interest with a hook, such as a startling statistic about social media usage or a relevant quote.

Body Paragraphs:

The body of the essay is divided into several paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect of the argument:

Positive Aspects:  This paragraph discusses the positive impact of social media, such as fostering connections, providing support networks, and raising awareness of mental health issues. It includes examples and statistics to support these points.

Negative Aspects:  Here, the essay delves into the negative effects of social media, including cyberbullying, social comparison, and addiction. Real-life examples and studies are cited to illustrate these harmful consequences.

Counterarguments: To address opposing viewpoints, the essay checker acknowledges that some studies suggest a limited negative impact of social media. However, it refutes these arguments with counter-studies and expert opinions, emphasizing the overall negative trend.

Conclusion:

The conclusion restates the thesis and summarizes the main points from the body paragraphs. It provides a balanced perspective by acknowledging the positive and negative aspects of social media's impact on mental health. The essay ends with a thought-provoking statement, encouraging the reader to consider their own relationship with social media and its effects on their well-being.

Additional Considerations:

The essay's clear topic sentences, evidence, and transitions between paragraphs maintain coherence. The essay follows a formal tone, uses proper grammar and citations, and avoids jargon. It provides a comprehensive overview of the topic while presenting a well-structured argument that engages the reader and encourages critical thinking.

Crafting top-notch and perfect opinion essay writing is not just about expressing your viewpoint; it is about constructing a persuasive and well-structured argument. You can effectively communicate your opinions by adhering to the fundamental elements of a clear thesis statement, an engaging introduction, well-supported body paragraphs, and a thought-provoking conclusion.

Remember to acknowledge opposing viewpoints, use evidence judiciously, and maintain a formal tone. Opinion essays are a powerful platform for sharing your thoughts, contributing to meaningful discussions, and refining your writing and critical thinking skills. You can craft opinion essays that resonate and persuade effectively with the right structure and approach.

Frequently asked questions

Q1. what is the key to a successful opinion essay.

The key to a successful opinion essay is a clear and compelling thesis statement that presents your main argument. Support your viewpoint with relevant evidence, maintain a logical structure, and acknowledge opposing perspectives.

Q2. How can I make my introduction engaging?

Start with a captivating hook, like a thought-provoking question or a surprising fact. Clearly state your thesis statement, and briefly preview the main points you will discuss.

Q3. What role do counterarguments play in an opinion essay?

Counterarguments demonstrate your critical thinking skills and strengthen your argument by addressing opposing viewpoints. You can acknowledge counterarguments within your essay and then refute them.

Q4. How can I ensure my opinion essay is well-structured?

Organize your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs focusing on specific points, and a conclusion summarizing your argument. Use transitional words for coherence.

Q5. Should I include personal experiences in my opinion essay?

Yes, personal experiences can enhance your essay's authenticity. However, ensure they are relevant to your argument and used as supporting evidence, not as the sole basis of your viewpoint.

Q6. How can I find credible evidence for my opinion essay?

Utilize reputable sources like academic journals, books, and expert opinions. Ensure your sources are recent and authoritative to bolster the credibility of your argument.

Q7. What is the difference between an opinion and a persuasive essay?

While both aim to persuade, an opinion essay primarily expresses your viewpoint. A persuasive essay focuses on convincing the reader to adopt your perspective through strong argumentation.

Q8. How can I maintain a formal tone in my opinion essay?

Avoid overly casual language and slang. Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and follow the conventions of academic writing, such as citing sources correctly.

Q9. Can I use personal anecdotes in my conclusion?

Yes, personal anecdotes can be effective in the conclusion to leave a lasting impression. Relate your personal experience back to your thesis or the broader implications of your opinion.

Q10. What is the most important aspect of revising my opinion essay?

The most crucial revision aspect is ensuring your essay is clear and well-organized. Check for logical flow between paragraphs, and edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

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An opinion essay

Learn how to write an opinion essay.

Do the preparation task first. Then read the text and tips and do the exercises.

Preparation

Matching_MjMxMDM=

Some people think that some types of criminals should not go to prison. Instead they should do unpaid work in the community. To what extent do you agree?

Owing to the great variety of crimes that can be punishable by prison, some people argue that not all criminals are the same and it would therefore be more appropriate to give certain criminals community service instead. I agree that in some cases, prison may not be the best solution and community service would probably have more benefits.

One justification given for prisons is to keep society safe by removing criminals from the outside world. So the first thing to consider is if someone who has broken the law is a danger to other people. In the case of violent crime, there is an argument to keep the perpetrator away from society. However, burglary or possession of drugs, for example, does not involve violence against other people so the criminal does not present a direct danger to anyone in the community. Keeping these types of criminals in prison is expensive for the taxpayer and does not appear to be an effective punishment as they often commit the same crime again when they come out of prison.

Personally, I also believe punishments should reform people so they do not reoffend. A further reason not to put these people in prison is that they may mix with more dangerous and violent criminals, potentially committing a worse crime when they are released. By keeping them in the community, helping others, they not only learn new skills, but they could also develop more empathy and care towards others. If this occurs, society can only benefit.

Critics of this more rehabilitative approach to crime believe that justice should be harsh in order to deter people from committing similar crimes and that community service could be less likely to have that effect. However, there is very little evidence to suggest that long prison sentences deter criminals.

In conclusion, putting criminals who are not a danger to society in prison is expensive and, in my opinion, ineffective, both as a deterrent and as a form of rehabilitation. Community service for non-violent crimes benefits both society and the offender. That said, it would be useful to have more data to work out whether community service or prison is more likely to stop someone reoffending. I strongly believe that decisions on how best to deal with criminals should be based on evidence of what actually works.

• Introduce your essay by restating the question in your own words.
• If the essay asks you to what extent do you agree?,  make your opinion clear throughout. You can either agree, partially agree or disagree with the statement, explaining and justifying your opinion.
• Introduction
• The first reason why you agree/disagree
• The second reason why you agree/disagree
• The third reason why you agree/disagree (if you have one)
• Use phrases to organise and link your ideas, e.g. Owing to … , One justification for … , The first thing to consider is … , A further reason … , In conclusion ... .
• If you do not have solid evidence for your ideas, use modal verbs such as might , may or could  (e.g. they could  develop more empathy and care ) or other tentative phrases (e.g. it does not appear to be an effective punishment ).
• Conclude by restating your opinion and summarising your two or three main arguments.

Do you agree that community service is better than prison for some crimes?

Language level

Good day Sir/Madam,

I would like to ask about the expression ‘So the first thing is to…’. In academic and formal writing, should I avoid using ‘thing’ or ‘so’ or is it still fine? Thanks a lot for taking your time to read this. Hope to hear from you.

Your sincerely, Kimmie

• Log in or register to post comments

Hi kimmie,

Thanks for your question. In academic and formal writing, there is a general preference for precision over vagueness, so generally speaking it's better to avoid this usage of  so  and  thing  and use more precise and academic terms when they are available (e.g. Therefore, the first factor/issue to consider is ... ).

However, if you search academic writing, you will find writers do use  thing  sometimes, especially in fixed phrases (e.g.  the first thing /   the same thing ) or technical terms ( e.g. the Internet of Things ). Some writers might also use more general terms first before moving onto more precise terms.

(Note: The essay on the page above is in a somewhat formal style but not very formal.)

I hope that helps.

LearnEnglish team

Hi Jonathan

This is immensely valuable for me. Thank you so much for your swift response. Hope you have a nice day.

In my country it is often debated whether community services are better than prison for certain crimes. I think it's pretty obvious that it should be an option for less important faults. However, sometimes it happens that a judge decides to grant this benefit to some type of powerful criminals who cause more significant damage to society than others who do not have the same possibility, such as financial criminals or corrupt government agents. In my opinion, these types of sentences can have a bad impact on people, since they see that these behaviors are not severely punished and are somehow protected by the law. In conclusion, I agree that certain types of crimes should avoid prison, but I believe that before implementing it, the society must agree on which crimes will be able to enjoy this possibility to ensure that justice is fair for all.

please approve for testing

Hello aaron,

We check all comments before publishing them, which is why it's taken some time for your comment to be published.

Normally we delete a comment like this -- and we deleted the other one you made -- but have let this one through so you can see that it works. 

We are a small team, so it can sometimes be several hours before comments are published -- just wanted to tell you for the future.

We look forward to hearing more from you!

All the best, Kirk LearnEnglish team

The subject of how criminals should be punished is complicated, there are a lot of different opinions defending their points of view. There are two main ideas the first is arresting all the offenders, and the second idea is separating those not dangerous to society, and sending them to work in the community. In my opinion, I agree with the second idea, because there are many expenses with the prisons and the prisoners, so if lessen the population in this environment the conditions and the quality could be better than if there were overpopulation, avoiding justice being done right. Furthermore, these people aren't violent and dangerous to others, so with bad company in the prison, they might become bad people too. In this case, it's an awful idea to mix a different kind of person. Therefore, it's an excellent suggestion to oblige these people to do work in society, but with supervision in the right way and strictly.

On account of the differences between several types of crimes, not all criminals should be sent to prison. It is suggested that giving certain offenders community service would be more appropriate than just jailing them.

Honestly, I completely agree that the right way to protect people from harm is to imprison criminals who conduct violent crimes that endanger human physical health. Nevertheless, this penalty may be ineffective with offenders who have administrative guilts or non-violent offenses. Since they often commit the same crime after getting out of prison, this is just a temporary punishment to ensure the security of citizens for a certain period. The nature of the problem is these crimes originate from greed and bad habits which lead to their deviant behaviors but have not yet resulted in such severe consequences that affect human life.

From my perspective, the government would rather reform these types of offenders than deter them as a kind of punishment. It is better to have an alternative that perceptively impacts these people’s awareness which is to make them do community service. Jailing these criminals just increases their hatred and develops antisocial personality. By keeping and controlling them in a community, besides learning new skills, they amend their bad manner as well as develop more empathy and care towards others.

Given these points, the application of punishment should be based on the nature of each specific crime. Prisons should only be used for perpetrators committing directly dangerous crimes to people's lives. Making non-violent criminals do community service is more of a practical way to optimize tax wasted for prisons as well as give them a chance to fix their wrong behaviors.

There are several types of crimes and for each of them, a different sentence is dictated. A paramount question to be considered is whether community servers are more accurate than prisons for some crimes.

To begin with, community servers would help and support criminals through specialized psychologists. Not only would community servers help and support them, but also it would give them jobs to help them give the society back a contribution in return.

In addition, prisons only contribute to worsening the situation owing to the fact that criminals will commit crimes again. The key to excellent behavior is learning. If they learn suitable habits, they will adapt to society and help it.

Furthermore, it is necessary to have empathy with criminals and not judge them because their hate increases when they are condemned in prison. A further reason for this is that hate feeds hate. Nevertheless, some criminals must be in jail due to their danger on the streets. It is difficult to know that a person who kills someone else, is going to change even if he/she receives help from psychologists.

In contrast, most of society believes that all criminals should be in prison. However, prisons must be all comfortable like a hotel in order to bring for the prisoners a place to recover themselves. The reason why they must live in appropriate conditions is due to his mental health. For instance, in Norway, prisons are like hotels because the government considers that criminals need a second chance to live in a community

To conclude, it would be suitable for all criminals to live in accurate prisons in order to recover themselves. Despite the cost that kind of prisons are supposed to take, they are worth paying for them. In my opinion, safety is priceless and is more important than the cost.

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How to Write an Opinion Essay: Step-by-Step Guide

Table of contents

• 1.1 The Ultimate Purpose
• 1.2 Key Features of Opinion Essay Writing
• 2 Criteria of a Convincing Opinion Essay
• 3.2 Don’ts
• 4.1 Introduction
• 4.2 Body Part 1
• 4.3 Body Part 2
• 4.4 Body Part 3
• 4.5 Conclusion

Whether in primary education, high school, or college, knowing how to write a paper that supports your position is vital. The ability to build arguments is another essential skill you can demonstrate in your work. Moreover, writing a persuasive opinion essay will help you score higher grades and let your voice resonate across many topics.

Opinion essays invite writers to express their standpoints regardless of what the opposing views might be. As long as you can back up your reasoning with facts and examples, it will remain valid. The author should also suggest a contrasting idea but refute it with arguments that expose its inconsistency.

Above all, students have the freedom to express their opinion on a specific topic. Yet, no idea is relevant if it lacks a proper explanation. Hence, learning the definition, purpose, criteria, and structure is highly beneficial. This step-by-step guide will show you how to write an essay and proceed to the finale like a pro.

What Is an Opinion Essay?

According to academia, an opinion essay is a written text that includes the author’s thoughts on a defined subject matter. The sentences should develop gradually and build upon logically presented claims. Eventually, you must arrive at an outcome that arises from relevant facts and arguments.

Including several examples from your life can be a big plus in the eyes of your educator. This point is particularly relevant for entry applications. Composing a good college admission essay requires the author to state ideas clearly, without excessive fillers and long reasoning. Referring to facts from studies and research or mentioning historical figures is advisable, too.

Finally, your manuscript must be technically accurate and structured and follow the rules of academic writing shared by your teacher. Since it is a formal piece, students must adhere to pre-set requirements. Typos, grammatical errors, and illogical sentences are off-limits, too.

The Ultimate Purpose

Teachers prefer the opinion essay format because it has proven to teach learners to express their views correctly. In addition, such reasoning lets educators test their students’ knowledge and critical thinking. Here are the underlying objectives convincing writing can achieve:

• Polished writing style. Even in a highly digitalized world, writing skills are still relevant. More specifically, you will have to write different types of college essays in school and later in your career. The sooner you master the process, the more efficiently you’ll deliver your standpoints in the future.
• Ability to convey thoughts. Regardless of the topic, teachers aim to help each student become an independent individual, knowing how to fight for their rights. Everyone must learn to express convincing arguments that put opposing views in a subordinate position.
• Mastering a specific subject. Educators must implement methods to test each student’s acquisition of the subject taught in school. Hence, writing a short essay is an excellent opportunity to ensure topic understanding. Social sciences and literature are ideal courses for this purpose.
• Developing creativity and reaching your audience. Any text intends to attract the reader’s interest and leave a mark on or modify their views. This way, you boost your confidence and improve your composition skills.

Key Features of Opinion Essay Writing

Essays have a specific form and characteristics you must follow to produce a high-quality piece. Consider these suggestions to make your text unique and attention-grabbing.

• Address the question at hand from both sides. This approach shows you’re knowledgeable about the subject and can tackle opposing views.
• Present a concise and well-reasoned subjective opinion. Ensure all your proof leads to it and that the conclusion summarizes your main points.
• Draw arguments and examples from your prior experiences. However, you can also include literary quotes and historical facts to strengthen your position.
• Stick to a logical essay structure . Sentences should flow naturally and lead to the finale.
• Incorporate speech instruments. Various language constructs will impact your audience and hook their attention.
• Use transition words to progress smoothly to the end of your manuscript. As a result, your reader will feel engaged and eager to proceed.

Criteria of a Convincing Opinion Essay

Many people don’t know how to write an opinion essay introduction even after graduation. Thus, they turn to a professional writing service to order an essay or read a few samples. Whatever your preference, there are specific guidelines you must consider when writing.

• Straight to the point: Going off-topic will lower your grade. Hence, check the relevance of your standpoints to the assignment and don’t steer away from the central idea.
• No fluff. Don’t write long sentences with no point in sight and a lot of water. Run-on sentences are also unacceptable because they bore the reader.
• Indentation: Remember to indent the first line of the intro for about 0.5 inches from the left margin. Indenting other body paragraphs isn’t necessary if there is enough visual spacing between them.
• A carefully crafted thesis: This part will describe the essay briefly and signpost what follows. Hence, offer insight about what you will support in the main body.
• Formality level: Although you might include some informal wording, concentrate on scholarly constructions. If you have problems, consider hiring a reflective essay writing service to boost your academic vocabulary. Also, choose more complex linking phrases.
• First-person sentences: Since you’re offering details from your experience, consider writing in the first person.
• Clear structure. Your essay must be coherent and follow the standardized layout.
• No slang: Forget about acronyms and abbreviations like “LOL” and “OMG, because these examples reveal you aren’t familiar with the essential rules.
• Focus on proper spelling and impeccable grammar.
• Versatile vocabulary: Use a lot of synonyms and high-learned phrases that demonstrate your academic skills.
• Refrain from parentheses, dashes, and exclamation marks. Also, avoid emojis at all costs.

Tips for Writing an Opinion Essay

Here’s some more expert advice on how to make an opinion essay stand out from the crowd.

• Use a scholarly tone for your opinion writing. It should sound as if you’re making a persuasive speech.
• Introduce the subject with clarity. Avoid useless phrases that distance the reader from the writing opinion paper.
• Avoid jargon and non-literary wording.
• The main ideas must be easy to spot. All body segments begin with a topic sentence.
• Write an excellent opinion essay conclusion.
• Stick to the present simple tense.
• Cite your sources and references.
• Use phrases like “I believe”, “I reckon,” and “In my view.”
• Brevity is the key. Write a concise introduction and conclusion that round up your positions.
• Ensure a logical sequence and give reasons that are easy to follow.

Don’ts

• Avoid colloquial expressions that come and go quickly.
• Abbreviated forms aren’t correct. Replace all contractions with their non-contracted versions. The reader should grasp what you’re contemplating.
• Over-generalizations are irrelevant. Stay precise.
• Don’t integrate statistics without citing them.
• Don’t forget essay examples that substantiate your position.
• Avoid repeating arguments. Group several similar facts in a single claim.
• Too many straightforward sentences are not typical for academic writing.
• Don’t use an imperative voice but be discreet.
• Emotive vocabulary should get avoided.
• Avoid addressing the audience “you”.

Writing an opinion essay can be a daunting task. However, with enough dedication and research, you can craft an essay that will demonstrate your knowledge and opinion on a given topic. To get started, head to PapersOwl.com , a reliable writing service that can provide you with quality opinion essay samples and guidance.

Opinion Essay Outline

The five-paragraph structure is perfect for this kind of writing. Alternatively, you might find someone to write your essay online for a fee. This way, beginners can see what each paragraph includes and how to develop their skills. Overall, the following structure will steer you in the right direction.

Introduction

– State the subject matter

– Share a famous quote or scientific fact and give credit

– Thesis statement (one or two sentences to describe the overall content)

– Sentence that introduces the first argument

Body Part 1

– Supporting claim

– Example

– Explanatory part

– Sentence that transitions to the second argument

Body Part 2

– Sentence that transitions to the third argument

Body Part 3

– Sentence that transitions to the conclusion

– Summary of the essay

– An overall sentence that rounds up the theme.

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How to Write an Opinion Essay? 100+ Topics and Ideas

Samuel Gorbold

Writing an Opinion Essay With Topic Ideas 

Students might see their ideal school as a place where there are no exams or much responsibilities. But, in reality, elementary school, middle school, and college education go hand in hand with writing various assignments, including Common App opinion essays. Since this kind of task is inevitable in most schools, students should educate themselves and become ready in advance.

Indeed, you can always hire an essay writers service and spare yourself the additional writing effort. However, we are here to help those who want to compose opinion essays themselves. So, what is an opinion essay? Read further, and learn what the proper format is and which examples of opinion essay topics are worth trying!

What Is an Opinion Essay: Definition

For every person, the ability to express their opinions is an essential part of personal growth. But is public speaking the only way? No, opinion essay writing offers students a chance to voice their thoughts and get feedback from teachers, mentors, or the Common App admissions committee. 

You may ask, "What is an opinion essay, then?" In short, opinion essays are academic works in which students simply write their points of view on something. Here are some characteristics of opinion essay writing:

Require Evidence

In other words, be ready to have enough background info examples to support your opinions. Otherwise, the fairness of points is under question.

Take Only One Side When Responding to Essay Prompt

Another unique feature of opinion essays is that you express only one take on a problem. Contrarily, argumentative papers examples require discussing something from different angles. 

Often Appear as Common App Essay Prompts

If you are applying to educational institutions through Common App, know that opinion essay prompts are a usual way of assessing students. Hence, practice writing to be able to compete with other applicants!

Learn what is a reflective essay at EssayHub blog.

All students know that school or college essays must fit a list of rules. These specific requirements are called a format that greatly affects the test scores. Interestingly, aligning with the format becomes the most significant challenge for many. For instance, if a student wrote excellent points without proper formatting, it would give the wrong impression about their writing abilities. 

You can either use a writing service to structure your paper or memorize the opinion essay format to solve the problem. But what is opinion essay format? Let's briefly discuss it to ensure your later success with homework or Common App!

Introduction

If you wonder how to start an opinion essay, the writing principle here is the same as in the other essay kinds. Always start writing with the introduction, which prepares the readers for whatever is coming next. By the same rule, an opinion essay introduction contains the writer's summarized thoughts about the subject. So, try to fit them all into the introductory paragraph to stay within the word limit.

Whether you start writing a Common App essay or a regular college essay, vivid imagery is crucial for drawing attention. A surprising way to captivate the readers is by writing your favorite quote that fits the theme. Remember, students have to feel these words on a personal level before including them.

As usual, any intro ends with a thesis statement, which is a sentence that comprises an author's viewpoint. Make sure this part is clear and concise, especially when writing a Common App essay. Moreover, students can spice things up with a rhetorical question that finishes the intro. Address it in the body part which goes next!

The second part of every opinion essay outline is the main body which has the biggest word count. Generally, the main body exists to give a vivid picture of your opinion on the issue. 

What else should you know? You often use writing to speak directly to the audience, whether they are other students, Common App admissions officers, or others. Your main goal is to prove the validity of your thought processes.

Furthermore, use the division into paragraphs wisely. Because logic helps to earn the highest test scores, place the thoughts in order. In other words, every new section should give a new understanding of the problem and fresh examples. Besides, if you choose interesting examples of topics to write an opinion essay on, you always have enough points to discuss.

Lastly, before you start writing your Common App, school, or college essay body, collect enough factual evidence like statistics, examples from daily life, your past experiences, etc. This part demonstrates your dedication and professionalism!

As a rule, all student essays have a concluding part after the main body. An opinion essay is no exception. Regardless of the presented essay prompt, writing a polished ending is a sign of quality opinion essay writing, so here is how you do it.

Are you doing homework or answering Common App essay prompts? In any case, use the conclusion to summarize the main points of your opinion paper. This move helps admissions officers or other readers remember your facts better. In the conclusion, you should restate something you have already mentioned. 

Additionally, you can drop a paraphrased version of the original thesis statement, which answers the essay prompt that a teacher or an admissions officer gave you. Also, mention how the issue affected you to demonstrate a personal connection to the theme. Such a trick gains the trust of your readers! Finally, show your positive attitude through a writing tone that leaves a pleasant aftertaste and convincing examples.

How to Write an Opinion Essay? 

Sometimes, you read an excellent college essay and wonder how people can be this talented. After this, you start questioning your writing skills and even dread any essay prompts, including Common App. As a result, you either decides to get help from write me an essay service or looks for credible advice from experts. 

If you choose the second option, we can tell you how to write an opinion essay! The instructions below work for everybody, from regular students to those in the Common App admission process. Luckily, even the seemingly complicated Common App essay prompts crack like a wishbone thanks to several professional secrets. So, the only thing left is picking appealing examples of topics for an opinion essay!

First, Form a Position on the Issue 

The first tip is to present strong points in your opinion essay. Good opinion essay topics allow you to make a personal statement carved into people's memories for a long time. Still, unfortunately, many make the common mistake of choosing a boring subject or borrowing other people’s opinions that do not relate to them. 

Remember that picking and answering an essay prompt requires preparation. Because every prompt asks your viewpoint, take time to form a personal attitude in your essay. Sometimes, a controversial take on a problem draws even more attention. Then, a Common App admissions officer can appreciate your courage and attempt to favor your unpopular point of view.

Conduct In-depth Research 

Generally, student essays demand thorough research to gain the highest scores. For instance, a Common App essay with a list of credible sources can make the application process easier. Working on tasks like a Common App prompt during a school year trains your ability to look for relevant data and correct sources. This way, even rare and unexpected statements have proof from various sources in the best opinion essay examples.

What’s more, often the scientists’ opinions can be so impressive that you might feel like your views are not worth comparing. So, rummaging through literature can become a fun extracurricular activity to add to your research and give you more confidence.

Recognize Common Arguments

When you choose popular topics to write an opinion essay, you have plenty of materials from other people who discuss the same issue. Such essay prompts make it simultaneously easier and harder to write. On the one hand, you quickly find the references. On the other hand, the opinions may be contradictory.

Your task is to analyze as many statements as possible to mold a personal view, especially for a Common App essay prompt. Then, with time, you slowly understand which side you want to take. Eventually, even students with unique opinions feel supported if they find examples of works by like-minded scientists.

Don't Reserve Your Views Until the Conclusion 

Another essential rule of opinion essay writing is getting straight to the point with your opinion. A thesis statement is perfect for doing so. In addition, it is of great help when you try to navigate the audience through a lengthy paper and avoid confusion in a Common App essay. 

Contrarily, revealing your perspective, in the end, is not effective in a personal essay or a different prompt. This strategy puts the reader into a waiting mode, which not many enjoy. Would you like to leave them guessing your opinions? No, because the audience may misinterpret your hints leaving the reader confused.  

Begin With Your Most Compelling Argument 

Many students learned how to influence readers' perspectives through their experience in writing opinion essays. Using the strategy of starting with your strongest assertion is one of the greatest examples. Accordingly, in a hierarchical arrangement, the weaker points come next. So, why does this trick succeed in a college essay?

Since your strongest argument is also the most persuasive, it has the power to change readers' perspectives. But after the strong initial impression, the weaker points start to have significant weight too. Remember this for your Common App essay that defines your success since proving your point to the committee is crucial.

Feel Free to Show Some Emotion 

How to write an opinion essay for Common Application or a regular school class and succeed? First, express emotions, especially in a personal essay ! Students often hear that they should base their written works on strong facts, but where is room for a personal story? Surprisingly, an opinion paper is a perfect blend of both facts and feelings.

In everyday life, the ability to open up about deep emotions comes with personal growth. Therefore, emotional Common App essays signal the maturity of their authors and deserve appreciation. Furthermore, honest statements appeal to people more than strong facts, so use this to your advantage.

Don't Forget to Proofread 

When dealing with an exam or Common Application, you often do everything in a hurry. As a result, unexpected mistakes appear here and there in your opinion essay writing. As much as they are a natural occurrence, they still drop your score, which is especially bad for Common App essays. Hence, proofreading is a way to go!

This term means many things, including checking grammar, spelling, punctuation, coherency, and other examples. You likely know your weak sides from the previous prompts and feedback. If so, analyze your papers accordingly to seek your usual errors. Moreover, asking a mentor or a friend to proofread your Common App work is an awesome idea!

Opinion Topics 

Deciding on the topics to write an opinion essay on is a task that many find quite challenging. If somebody suffers from lack of creativity, it also affects the ability to create a unique title. So, unless it's a ready Common App prompt, students should use their imagination.

What are good opinion essay topics? There is no universal answer because people think differently about the same title. Indeed, someone can even criticize a Common App prompt. But everybody can agree that a relevant topic should appeal to the writer in the first place. 

The author's passion is visible and highly appreciated in regular and Common App essays. Therefore, the best thing you can do is pick a title for which you feel a personal connection. The admissions process becomes even more pleasant by presenting lists of catchy topics!

Personal Opinion Essay Topics 

Throughout the years of studies, people need to open up via writing multiple times. An opportunity like this happens when you write Common App essays, semester papers, or regular homework. Some great examples of personal opinion essay topics look like this:

• Which family member, in your opinion, can be a good role model and why?
• Would you want to become a transfer student, and why?
• How has the process of practicing gratitude affected you?
• Would you participate in a community service project?
• How have extracurricular activities changed your life?
• Was moving to a foreign country beneficial for you?
• Are you a good family member, in your opinion?
• What do you think you should change about yourself?
• Who are you in your friend group, and why?
• Would you be a good parent, and why?
• Which country would fit you the best?
• Which of your talents can make you rich?
• Do you feel comfortable in your close circle, and why?
• Who will you be ten years from now?
• What do you think about your former self?

Opinion Argumentative Essay Topics

Do you enjoy proving your point of view to others? Then, you may need opinion argumentative essay topics! We prepared several good opinion essay topics which stimulate creativity:

• Should community service be obligatory for children in school?
• Do you think cosplaying equals the appropriation of other cultures?
• In your opinion, do modern kids spend enough time with their parents?
• Can you protect your own design from AI art generators?
• Do you believe it's possible to ban smoking for future generations?
• Should bright-colored toys be banned for babies?
• Do you think graffiti should be legal? Why?
• Should people sue if someone films them without consent? 
• Should the law forbid blasting music in the daytime?
• How did movies change people's perception of theater?
• Do you think free will exists, or is it an illusion?
• Do people today have more rest than their ancestors? Why?
• Which climate ensures the highest life quality?
• Will people consider coffee an illegal substance in the future?
• Can quarrels be good for a romantic relationship? Why?

Opinion Essay Topics High School

When teachers create opinion essay topics for kids, they aim to make them better thinkers and writers. Some good opinion essay topics high school are:

• Is the debate team the best possible school club? Why?
• At which age should children be able to hang out without parents?
• Do you think it's normal for firstborns to babysit younger siblings?
• Should there be an upper age limit for drivers?
• Why is it dangerous to glamorize the model industry?
• Would cars be legal if people invented them today?
• Will online studies completely replace offline classes in the future?
• What do you think we should change about schools?
• What problems can phone addiction cause for generation Alpha?
• How to compensate for the lack of outdoor activities?
• Do girls experience more academic pressure than boys?
• Should there be grades in art or music class?
• What are the best ways of bonding with peers?
• Is heavy makeup appropriate for school? Why or why not?
• Should educational institutions allow students to bring their pets to class?

Opinion Essay Topics College 

People who attend higher educational institutions do various tasks, including opinion essays. Look at some opinion essay topics college in case you need inspiration:

• Do you think it is always good to be optimistic and why?
• Should people explore space when there are many problems on Earth?
• Where do you think is the fine line between dark humor and rudeness?
• What are the possible undersides of so-called gentle parenting?
• Which kinds of sports will rule fifty years from now and why?
• Is it worth perfecting art skills if artificial intelligence does it better anyway?
• Do you think it's ethical for celebrities to boast about their riches online?
• Why is the notion of finding a life-long love harmful?
• How do you think relationship standards will change in the future?
• How does the lack of plants in cities affect mental health?
• How to keep friendships from falling apart in adulthood?
• Can the government fully solve the problem of homelessness?
• Why do many consider Christmas the saddest holiday of all?
• Do you think cartoons cause more harm or good?
• Is it possible to gain an adult mindset in a short time?

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Sometimes you can be asked questions like “Is technology needed for human development?”, “Do you feel students need to wear uniforms?”, or maybe something along the lines of “Do you agree that the music industry has become largely toxic?” All these questions can be answered on paper through an opinion essay. Students and writers widely use this type of writing to express their own views on the specifically stated topic. If you are looking for ways to do the same, well then, you’ve come to the right place! Below we will give all the necessary details to help you structure and craft your opinion essay both with quality and ease.

What Is an Opinion Essay: Key Characteristics and Structure

An opinion essay is a type of writing where you share your viewpoint on a particular topic. Unlike other essays that require multiple perspectives or even facts, opinion writing focuses on what you think and why. Your goal is to convince the reader to agree with your outlook (or at least to consider it closely) by presenting strong arguments and supporting them with examples.

In an opinion essay, you express a clearly formed opinion backed by research, logic, and sometimes anecdotal evidence. It’s your chance to articulate a position and demonstrate both what you think and why you think it. Being able to express an opinion effectively is an important skill, especially in today’s world where opinions are everywhere, like on social media. It also allows you to identify opinions that are well-supported versus those that aren’t. You’ll often find opinion essays in the Op-Ed sections of newspapers, where writers share their views on various topics. These essays can influence public beliefs and spark important discussions. 

The structure of an opinion essay typically follows the five-paragraph format. Start with an introduction that includes a hook to grab the reader’s attention and a thesis statement that clearly presents your opinion. In the body, each paragraph should cover a separate reason supporting your thesis, backed up with evidence or examples. Finally, the conclusion summarizes your main points and restates your thesis in a fresh way to reinforce your argument. This structure helps keep your essay organized and your arguments clear, making it easier for your readers to follow and be persuaded by your point of view.

What All Opinion Essays Need to Include

All opinion essays, regardless of the topic, share some key characteristics that make them effective and persuasive. First and foremost, your essay must have a clear opinion or thesis. This is the main point you want to make and it should be evident right from the start. Whether you formed your opinion quickly or have been considering it for a while, it has to have a clear start to guide the reader through your argument.

Novelty is another important aspect. A strong opinion essay brings something new to the table. This could mean presenting a viewpoint that challenges mainstream ideas or supporting a widely held belief with fresh, interesting research. Adding a unique perspective or new information keeps your essay engaging and relevant.

You should choose a semiformal tone for your writing. While it’s easy to slip into a conversational style, especially when discussing personal opinions, keeping a balanced, semiformal tone lends your writing more credibility. Using such a writing style you can be sure that your essay is taken seriously yet doesn’t sound too stiff or too casual. You can be sure that your text sounds perfect by using our essay editing services .

Aside from that, avoid ambiguity. Your opinion should be clear and well-defined (from the beginning to the very end). If you aren’t sure about your stance, your reader won’t be either. Make it clear to yourself what you think and why you think it before you start writing. This clarity will help you stay focused and avoid rambling.

Finally, support your opinion with strong evidence and clear reasoning. Simply stating “I think” isn’t enough. You need to back up your viewpoint with facts, examples, and logical arguments. This strengthens your case and shows that your perspective is well-considered and credible.

How to Write Opinion Essay

We have finally moved to the main part of our guide – writing an opinion essay. Before sitting down and typing out your thoughts, you need to do some preparation. 

Start with brainstorming . If you don’t have a specific question you need to answer or a prompt, think about all the topics you are passionate about and your possible response. Suppose you are given a prompt about the benefits of video games in education, consider both the positive and negative aspects before forming your opinion. Now, as we move that out of the way, we can begin structuring our document.

Next, move on to research. This is where you form your opinion by gathering data and asking yourself why you believe what you do. Look for supporting evidence from reliable sources, such as academic articles, books, and credible websites. For example, if you believe video games enhance learning, find studies or expert opinions that back this claim. Don’t forget to explore counterarguments to present a balanced view and strengthen your essay.

Now, to the writing part.

• Create an outline. Follow the five-paragraph essay structure, but adjust the number of paragraphs as needed. An outline helps organize your thoughts and ensures each paragraph logically follows the next.
• Begin drafting. Write a rough draft without worrying about perfection. Include all your research and quotes, citing sources as you go. For instance, if you’re arguing that homework should be banned, include quotes from studies showing its negative impact on student health.
• Review and revise . Read your essay out loud to check for logical flow. All evidence must support your thesis and your opinion should stay clear throughout. You can reorganize paragraphs to improve clarity if your essay feels a bit disjointed.
• Proofread your essay.   Look for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation issues. Use tools like AcademicHelp Grammar Checker or ask someone else to review your work. A well-proofread essay is polished and professional, making a stronger impact on your readers.

How to Start Off an Opinion Essay: Examples of Great Introductions

As was mentioned above, an introduction is an important and inseparable part of an opinion piece. It needs to be attention-grabbing yet clearly state the topic and key thesis. As such, the structure of an introduction is a hook, a clear presentation of the topic, and a thesis statement that outlines your opinion. Here are some effective strategies and examples of how you can start your opinion essay.

Use a Surprising Statistic . A startling fact can immediately draw your reader in and set the stage for your argument.

Give an Unpopular Opinion . Stating a controversial or unconventional viewpoint can pique curiosity and invite readers to consider a different perspective.

Ask a Rhetorical Question. Engaging your audience with a thought-provoking question can stimulate interest and reflection

Share a Life Experience/Anecdote. A brief, personal story can make your essay relatable and memorable

Incorporating these elements, you can craft a strong introduction that sets the tone for the rest of your essay and makes your readers eager to read more.

You may think that opinion essays are easy. After all, all you have to do there is state your point of view. Yet, it is important to do it properly. You need to present compelling evidence and present relevant and logical arguments as to why you think that way. That’s why structure is so important for the writing process. It will allow you to build a rational narrative, that will be clear and easy to follow for your readers. After all the main point of writing such an essay is to make others consider your perspective and maybe even make them change their mind. 

How do you start an opinion essay?

When starting an opinion essay you need to focus on grabbing your reader’s attention and setting the stage for your argument. Begin with a hook, like a surprising fact, a question, or a quote that relates to your topic. Then, introduce your topic and clearly state your thesis, which is your main point or opinion on the subject. This will set the tone and direction for the rest of your essay.

What are the 3 parts of opinion writing?

Opinion writing typically has three main parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. In the introduction, you present your topic and thesis statement. The body is where you provide reasons and examples to support your opinion, with each reason in its own paragraph. The conclusion wraps up your essay by summarizing your main points and freshly restating your thesis.

What is the correct structure to write an opinion essay?

The correct structure for an opinion essay includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Start with an engaging introduction stating the overall topic and main thesis. Then, write body paragraphs, each focusing on one reason supporting your opinion and including evidence or examples. Finish with a conclusion that summarizes your main points and reinforces your thesis.

Can I use I in an opinion essay?

Yes, you can use “I” in an opinion essay. In fact, it’s often encouraged because an opinion essay is about expressing your personal views. Using “I” makes your writing more personal and direct, helping to state your perspective clearly.

What not to write in an opinion essay?

In an opinion essay, avoid being overly biased or emotional. Stick to presenting clear, logical arguments backed by evidence. Don’t ignore opposing viewpoints entirely. On the contrary, acknowledging them can strengthen your essay even further. Also, avoid using slang or overly casual language, and don’t make unsupported claims or generalizations.

What is the most important part of an opinion essay?

The most important part of an opinion essay is your thesis statement. This is where you put down your main opinion on the topic. A strong thesis gives your essay direction and helps readers understand your viewpoint. Each part of your essay should support and reinforce this central idea.

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