Short Answer
The process of improving your argument involves three key steps: evaluate the logical connections between your ideas, organize your arguments for clarity, and maintain a formal tone in your writing. Ensure each point transitions smoothly, is aligned with your thesis, and uses precise language to enhance the overall cohesiveness and credibility of your essay.
Step 1: Evaluate Logical Connections
Begin by assessing whether your ideas are logically connected. This involves checking if each point naturally leads to the next, creating a cohesive argument. You can ensure this by:
- Identifying transitions between paragraphs.
- Ensuring each argument supports your thesis statement.
- Looking for any gaps in logic that need to be addressed.
Step 2: Organize Your Arguments
Next, focus on the organization of your arguments. A well-structured essay allows readers to easily follow your reasoning. To improve organization, consider:
- Using a clear introduction that outlines your main points.
- Employing topic sentences for each paragraph to summarize the main idea.
- Including a conclusion that ties back to your thesis and summarizes key arguments.
Step 3: Maintain a Formal Tone
Finally, ensure that your writing maintains a formal tone, avoiding casual expressions. This enhances the credibility of your argument and makes it more persuasive. To achieve a formal tone, remember to:
- Use precise vocabulary and avoid slang.
- Write in complete sentences with proper grammar.
- Read your essay aloud or have someone else read it to catch casual phrasing.