Prompts for Argumentative Essays
Outline an argumentative essay on [topic, described specifically]. My thesis is: [your actual position, stated clearly]. Give me 3 distinct body paragraphs, each with its own sub-claim, evidence type, and a sentence on how it connects back to the thesis. Suggest where to place a counterargument paragraph.
A genuinely useful argumentative essay outline needs distinct body paragraphs, each with its own sub-claim and a clear connection back to the thesis — asking for “an outline” with no structure specified returns a flat list of points with no real paragraph-level logic.
What this produces
A full essay outline with a thesis, multiple distinct body paragraphs each carrying its own sub-claim and evidence type, a placed counterargument, and guidance on how each section connects to the whole — not a flat list of talking points.
Variations
Two ready-to-copy versions for different structures.
Outline an argumentative essay on [topic]. My thesis is: [your actual position]. Give me 3 distinct body paragraphs, each with its own sub-claim, evidence type, and a sentence on how it connects back to the thesis. Suggest where to place a counterargument paragraph.
Outline an argumentative essay on [topic] that addresses the strongest counterargument upfront before building my case. My thesis is: [your position]. The counterargument to address first is: [opposing view]. Structure 2-3 body paragraphs after that rebuttal.
See also: 310 Prompts for Argumentative Writing and Prompt for Speech.
FAQ
How is this different from a general argumentative writing prompt?
This covers the full multi-paragraph essay structure — how separate body paragraphs connect to one thesis; a general argumentative writing prompt is for a single persuasive passage instead.
Where should the counterargument paragraph go?
Either works — addressing it early can feel more fair-minded and disarming, while a late rebuttal can feel like a strong closing counterpoint; the Counterargument-First version covers the early placement specifically.
How many body paragraphs should an argumentative essay have?
Three is a common standard structure, but this varies with essay length and assignment requirements — state your required length if it differs and adjust the paragraph count accordingly.
