A discursive essay is a type of essay writing that examines a specific topic from different angles and presents a balanced discussion. Unlike persuasive essays, it focuses on informing the readers by presenting arguments for and against the topic while maintaining a neutral tone.
The discursive essay discusses ideas and opinions without the aim of persuading the reader to take a given view. It is your unbiased presentation of differing viewpoints that allows the reader to decide which is best.
When to Write a Discursive Essay?
A discursive essay is mainly assigned as an assignment to students in order to test their ability to find and present balanced evidence without research bias.
In this assignment, you need to make a balanced examination of arguments surrounding a topic, with the option of stating your own position. You are not attempting to settle the debate, only to show the thinking that surrounds it.
What is the Purpose of a Discursive Essay?
The purpose of a discursive essay is to show that there are different and often competing viewpoints around a topic. The topic may raise controversy or describe a problem requiring a solution.
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Types of Discursive Essays
Here are three main types of discursive essays:
A. Opinion Essay
The opinion essay requires the author’s opinion on the issue. It should be clearly presented and supported with reason and evidence; it should also contain an opposing argument. The writer should explain why the counterargument is not convincing.
B. For and Against Essay
The for-and-against essay should provide readers with a good debate on the subject, aided by the opposing points of view. The main body paragraphs should give examples to support claims.
This should be written objectively, as its purpose is to bring the information to the reader to make a decision.
C. Problem-Solution Essay
A problem-solution essay analyses an issue and suggests possible solutions.
The introduction defines the problem, its causes and the consequences. The main body offers some suggestions for a possible solution to the problem and the potential impacts that can be anticipated from this solution.
How do I know if I should write a discursive essay?
Your essay question will give you a clue. It will not ask you to give your opinion or direct you to persuade your readers. Here are some title examples that can help you understand better:
- Is modern technology good or bad?
- Should children under the age of ten be given mobile phones?
- Should cigarettes be banned worldwide?
- Should the minimum age for driving a car be raised to 20?
- Has the death penalty been proven as a failure or a success?
What are the types of a discursive essay?
The types of a discursive essay are:
- Opinion Essay
- For and Against Essay
- Problem-Solution Essay
Steps to Write a Discursive Essay
Essential steps to write a discursive essay are given below:
Step 1: Understand the purpose of the essay
The first step is to understand what is being asked to do in the essay. A discursive essay, which discusses multiple viewpoints, also has different types, such as opinion-based, for and against, and problem-solution.
Example Topic: “Should social media platforms regulate fake news?”
- A for and against essay would discuss arguments for and against regulation.
- An opinion-based essay might favour regulation but acknowledge opposing views.
- A problem-solution approach could analyse the spread of fake news and propose ways to combat it.
Step 2: Choose a topic and research thoroughly
When writing a discursive essay, always choose a controversial or debatable topic, as it is easier to make a detailed case about such a topic. Conduct in-depth research from different credible sources, like articles, studies, and expert opinions.
Trying to write an essay before doing research is like polishing a car before washing it. Your research should not focus solely on the argument you favour but should cover other views equally. Make sure you understand both sides.
IMPORTANT TIP
From the introduction, the reader should understand where the essay is going; it should not be a mystery tour. This is especially important if the subject is very broad. You can state your position on the subject in the introduction, but it is not necessary.
Step 3: Plan your essay structure
The next step is to structure your discursive essay properly. A discursive essay typically follows this structure:
Structure of a Discursive Essay
Introduction
- Hook the reader with an interesting fact, quote, or question.
- Provide background information on the topic.
- Present a clear thesis statement outlining the discussion points.
Body Paragraphs
Each paragraph should focus on a single argument.
Paragraph 1: Argument For
- Present the first supporting point.
- Provide examples, statistics, or expert opinions.
Paragraph 2: Counterargument
- Discuss opposing views fairly.
- Refute or acknowledge them logically.
Paragraph 3: Additional Perspectives
- Explore another angle or related subtopic.
- Main objectivity.
Conclusion
- Summarise key points without introducing new arguments.
- Restate the thesis in different words.
- End with a thought-provoking statement or call for further discussion.
Step 4: Use formal and objective language
Unlike argumentative essays that contain persuasive or emotional devices, discursive essays avoid emotional language and use impersonal constructions like “It can be argued” and “Evidence suggests”. Here is an example:
❌ I think fake news is dangerous and should be banned.
✔️ Fake news has demonstrably harmful effects, justifying calls for stricter regulation.
Step 5: Revise and edit your essay
When you have completed your discursive essay, revise it for grammatical mistakes, errors, and typos. Ensure logical flow between paragraphs using smooth transitions, ensuring clarity and coherence. Verify that all viewpoints are represented fairly.
Moreover, editing and proofreading services can provide you significant assistance if you can’t edit your essay.
What is the author’s role in a discursive essay?
The author’s role in a discursive essay is minimal. That is, the essay should not be a personal opinion piece. The author stands in the centre of the ongoing debate, selects some of the best arguments and presents them to the reader.
Discursive Essay vs. Argumentative Essay
Here are the key differences between discursive and argumentative essays:
| Aspects | Discursive Essays | Argumentative Essays |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To present a balanced and credible discussion on a given issue. The writer may or may not state a position, but presents both sides equally. | To prove that the writer’s stance is correct. The goal is persuasion through evidence, logic, and reasoning. Counterarguments are acknowledged but not given equal weight. |
| Tone | Neutral, objective, and impersonal. Avoids emotional or persuasive language, though a slight stance may appear. | Persuasive, confident, and clear. Less formal than discursive essays but still academic in style. |
| Focus | Presents a range of perspectives, often highlighting the complexity of the issue. | Defends one main position and convinces the reader of its validity. |
| Author’s Role | The writer mainly acts as a reporter or analyst of different viewpoints, not as a strong advocate. | The writer is an advocate of a particular position, using research to back up their stance. |
| Introduction | States the issue being discussed. May outline different viewpoints without taking sides immediately. | Contains a concise thesis statement that makes the writer’s position clear from the start. |
| Body Structure | 3–5 key points are discussed with both supporting and opposing perspectives. | Each body paragraph supports the thesis with reasons and persuasive evidence. |
| Paragraph Style | Begins with a strong topic sentence introducing the issue, followed by balanced evidence from both sides. | Begins with a claim that supports the thesis, followed by evidence that reinforces the writer’s argument. |
| Use of Evidence | Evidence is factual, objective, and shows multiple sides of the debate. | Evidence is selective and focused, aiming to prove the writer’s position correct. |
| Conclusion | Summarises the main points from both perspectives. The writer may add their final stance here, but balance is maintained. | Restates the thesis, summarises the strongest arguments, and ends with a persuasive appeal for the reader to accept the writer’s stance. |
Discursive Essay Example
Topic: “Should Governments Implement a Four-Day Workweek?”
Introduction:
The traditional five-day workweek is increasingly being questioned as societies seek better work-life balance and productivity. Some argue that a four-day work week could improve well-being and efficiency, while others believe it may harm economic stability. This essay examines both sides to determine whether governments should adopt this policy.
Argument 1: In Favour
According to some studies in Iceland and New Zealand, a four-day workweek leads to reduced stress and a higher job satisfaction rate. Employees work more efficiently in shorter hours, maintaining high-quality output.
More studies suggest that fewer commuting days will reduce carbon emissions. Moreover, when there is more leisure time, it will strengthen family bonds and personal development.
Argument 2: Against
If there’s a four-day workweek, industries like healthcare and retail may struggle with reduced operational days. Small businesses could face financial strain if wages remain the same for fewer hours.
Likewise, if the productivity doesn’t compensate, the national GDP could suffer. Moreover, global competitiveness may decline if other nations maintain longer workweeks.
Argument 3: Counterargument & Rebuttal
According to some critics, it’s unfeasible to implement a four-day workweek, but pilot programs prove adaptability with proper planning. Also, flexible policies like staggered shifts could address industry-specific needs.
Conclusion:
While the four-day workweek presents clear benefits for employee well-being and sustainability, its success depends upon implementation. Governments should conduct sector-specific trials and incentivise businesses before nationwide adoption. If managed well, it could revolutionise work culture without sacrificing economic growth.
Discursive Essay Checklist
- The essay question definitely requires a discursive essay.
- I have examined the essay question and understand what is expected.
- I know which type of discursive essay to write.
- I have created my discursive essay outline.
- My essay does not contain my own persuasive or emotional language.
- I am aware of the process to follow in producing my essay.
- I know my stance on the subject and have decided whether to include it.
- Apart from where I might mention my stance, I will stay neutral on the subject.
- I understand the importance of giving others’ arguments their best chances.
- I know what to include and what not to put in my essay.
Frequently Asked Questions
A discursive essay is a type of essay that explores multiple perspectives on a topic, aiming to provide a balanced view rather than advocating for a specific stance.
You do not take a position in a discursive essay. Your tutor might also instruct you not to. However, if you decide to tell the reader your position, you briefly say it in the conclusion paragraph.
To make your discursive essay engaging, use real-time examples, rhetorical questions, and varied sentence structures. Moreover, use transitions to make the whole structure natural and smooth.
