discursive essay topic ideas

Offer of the decade FLAT 20% off + sign up bonus of $20 Order Now

[email protected]
+14159918581

Files Missing!

Please upload all relevant files for quick & complete assistance.

Discursive Essay Topics for Students

Home / Blog / 50 Unique Discursive Essay Topics For Students

Introduction

An essay paper is one of the shortest forms of academic tasks, but it isn’t exactly the easiest. Conducting thorough research, preparing a thesis statement, drafting the essay, and proofreading can be quite hectic if you are chased by a stringent deadline. Besides, if you have to write a new type of essay, things may get a lot more challenging for you. A discursive essay is a perfect example of a task that challenges students beyond limits.

Unfortunately, most students don’t know much about a discursive essay. To put it simply, a discursive essay presents both sides of an argument, and then discusses the stance of the author. Here, you need to maintain a formal tone. You need to write the whole paper from the perspective of a third person, even while expressing your opinion. The outline of a discursive essay is quite simple.

Choosing the topic for your discursive essay

Since you have no experience in working on this essay type, it might seem difficult to prepare an essay all by yourself. Before you can get to the writing part, you need to pick a topic first. Selecting a topic is the most time-consuming segment of drafting an essay. To find the right topic for your discursive essay, you can consider the following factors:

Brainstorm :

To generate some effective topic ideas for your essay, try brainstorming with your friends. This process is used in various professions (including creative writing) worldwide to find innovative ideas. People try many ways to brainstorm for ideas. See what suits you the best and jot down the potential ideas for further consideration.

Preferences of the instructor :

While selecting a topic, you need to ensure that it is relevant to the readers, which in your case is the essay instructor. If you want to leave a lasting impression on the instructor, choosing a topic of his/her interests is essential. Communicate with the instructor and try to know about the topics he/she likes. This will help you boost your chances of scoring better marks.

Things that you are interested in:

Most students don’t enjoy academic writing as they find the task to be boring. If you need to draft a discursive essay, consider the topics that genuinely interest you. You will be excited to work on the essay help and you will put in more efforts to excel in the task. If you have already learned about the interests of the instructor, select a topic preferred by both of you.

Availability of research material :

Since you have to present both sides of the argument in a discursive essay, you need a significant amount of data to support your claim as well as the counter-argument. It is better to confirm the availability of necessary data on the chosen essay topic. Scan the internet with proper keywords. If you don’t find any reliable data on the topic, you should consider a different topic.

By considering the four aforementioned factors, you can find a remarkable topic for your discursive essay. In case you are running short on time, you can take ideas from the following list of discursive essay topic ideas.

Impressive topic ideas for a discursive essay

Can violence in video games cause behavioral problems in children?
Is it beneficial to enroll a child in a single-sex school than a co-ed school?
Do firewalls keep the users away from bad content?
Is there any possibility of having another world war in the near future?
Are teachers and schools responsible for the low-test score of a student?
Is the advancement of technology responsible for the increasing number of Cancer patients?
Is Facebook a great tool for socializing or a terrible place for privacy?
Has the internet brought more harm than good?
No one is above the law – is it true?
Is there too much pressure on teens to attend college?
Should there be a legal curfew for minors?
Do mainstream media have the responsibility to promote more diversity?
Should parents push their kids into extracurricular activities?
Should advertisements highlight warnings and side effects?
Do movies create unrealistic expectations for relationships and marriage?
Do children really need an allowance?
Is today's music educating young listeners?
Should parents be on social media platforms?
Should media representatives be punished for an unfair presentation of facts?
Was the war in Iraq justified?
Should court proceedings be televised?
Should gay marriages be accepted in all democratic nations?
Do the police favour law offenders based on their race?
Should parents go for advanced training in parenthood?
Is peer pressure bad?
Using animals as test subjects: necessary or cruelty?
Is a college degree important for success?
Sex education in schools: Should it be stopped or increased?
Should schools teach foreign languages right from kindergarten?
Should there be a dress code for every professional?
Should working places have afternoon nap facilities for the employees?
Is a vegan diet healthy?
Is being broke a habit?
Space exploration is just a huge waste of money.
Destroying forests is a crime against the planet.
Being wealthy and being happy are two different things.
Artificial Intelligence is not a danger to humanity.
Technologies used in space exploration can solve critical problems on earth.
Unmanned probes are not a great choice for space exploration.
Smoking zones should be brought down.
Is it possible to live a healthy life without eating meat?
Do curfews keep children out of trouble?
Are beauty pageants exploitative?
Should men get paternity leave from work?
Do photoshopped images affect self-image and self-esteem?
Passive smokers suffer more than active ones.
Everyone should have free access to healthcare.
Is online censorship critical for internet users?
Cross-cultural marriages have a positive impact on racial tolerance.
Working hours must be reduced to let people spend more time with their family.

You can use these topic ideas for reference and generate an impressive topic idea of your own. You can also use one of these ideas to get started with your discursive essay. However, it is always better to work on a unique topic idea to grab the attention of your instructor.

Are you unable to write a discursive essay? Get top-notch assistance from the experts of Essayhack.io and put an end to your worries right away.

You might need some time to understand the basics of a discursive essay. If you think you will be unable to draft a stellar paper on your own, you can ask the experts of Essayhack.io for academic assistance. You can hire expert support for a variety of essay types, including a discursive essay.

Essayhack.io happens to be one of the leading academic solution providers in the country. For the past 8 years, the company has helped thousands of students fulfill their academic goals with confidence. If you are having problems regarding an academic task, you can rely on the experts of Essayhack.io. Besides personalized assistance, you can also enjoy a plethora of amazing features on every order.

Top-notch content with zero-errors
On-time delivery of every order
Guarantee of plagiarism-free paper
24x7 active support from the customer care team
Most affordable essay writing service in the business
Support for 100+ disciplines
Complete adherence to the guidelines and instructions
Secure transaction of payments
100% confidentiality assured
Free rework on unfulfilled orders

What are you waiting for? Place an order now and receive a flawless discursive essay paper before the deadline.

Do you want to share?

How to Write an Essay Introduction?

How to Write a Law Essay: Writing Guide with Examples

How to Choose Ideal Argumentative Essay Topics to Work On

PEEL Paragraph a Guide to Write a Perfect Essay

100 Effective Persuasive Essay Topics

How to Write a Descriptive Essay?- Guide with Examples

Who Am I Essay : How to Write it?

How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay? - Guide with Examples

Subscribe Newsletter

You can place your order for free now. Simply submit your order and see what our writers can Subscribe to get regular update!

Thank you for commenting.

Thank you for subscribed newsletter.

Thank You For Commenting.

Get acquainted with the top essay helpers in the country and glide smoothly towards your academic goals with the necessary essay writing help online from US’s top professionals.

Want quick $20? Share your details with us.

Thank you for subscribing our newsletter

Have any Query? Contact with us

Share full article

Supported by

student opinion

130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing

Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand?

By The Learning Network

Note: We have an updated version of this list, with 300 new argumentative writing prompts .

What issues do you care most about? What topics do you find yourself discussing passionately, whether online, at the dinner table, in the classroom or with your friends?

In Unit 5 of our free yearlong writing curriculum and related Student Editorial Contest , we invite students to research and write about the issues that matter to them, whether that’s Shakespeare , health care , standardized testing or being messy .

But with so many possibilities, where does one even begin? Try our student writing prompts.

In 2017, we compiled a list of 401 argumentative writing prompts , all drawn from our daily Student Opinion column . Now, we’re rounding up 130 more we’ve published since then ( available here as a PDF ). Each prompt links to a free Times article as well as additional subquestions that can help you think more deeply about it.

You might use this list to inspire your own writing and to find links to reliable resources about the issues that intrigue you. But even if you’re not participating in our contest, you can use these prompts to practice the kind of low-stakes writing that can help you hone your argumentation skills.

So scroll through the list below with questions on everything from sports and mental health to dating and video games and see which ones inspire you to take a stand.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and log into your Times account, or subscribe for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber? Log in .

Want all of The Times? Subscribe .

Put a stop to deadline pressure, and have your homework done by an expert.

155 Exceptional Discursive Essay Topics To Try

Do you have a discursive essay to prepare, and getting the right topic is proving challenging? Selecting the best title for your essay can be challenging because it requires a lot of research and a deep understanding of the respective discipline. For others, it is simply a lack of confidence and materials for research. So, what is the way out?

To help you get high grades, this post provides a list of 155 hot topics that you can use. Consider using them as they are or tweak a little to fit your preference. Do not just select any topic for your discursive essay; select the best.

How to Select a Good Discursive Essay Topic

Before we can list the best topics to write a discursive essay on, it is important to answer the question, “How do you pick the best?” Here are some expert tips:

Interesting to You No matter the study discipline, the topic you select should be interesting. This can help you to develop a stronger attachment with the work, increasing the chances of crafting a high-quality paper. If you select a topic that is not interesting, the chances are that it will become challenging midway. Relevant As a college or university student, every paper you do should help push you higher into your career ladder. Therefore, it is important to select topics that are relevant to your field, especially the latest happenings. For example, a student pursuing international relations might want to explore areas such as the recent withdrawal of the US from Afghanistan, the recent Israel-Hamas war, or the American policy on climate change. Enough Materials As you select the topic, it will be an excellent idea to also think about the resources that will be used to prepare it. If you do not have ample books, journals, and other publications, there is a danger of getting stuck. Focused and Catchy

When your lecturer checks the essay, the topic is what you will get first, and, therefore, you should make it catchy. This makes the reader want to go deeper into the paper and see what you have to say. A good topic is also likely to earn you a higher grade.

Next, we will highlight the main essay ideas, starting with higher English discursive essay topics. We will also tell you why it is important to work with an expert writer.

Good Discursive Essay Topics for Higher English

Should foreign languages be taught in all schools?
Both safe sex and abstinence should be taught in high school.
In education, are motivational theories effective?
Teenagers and children should always speak out about domestic violence.
Should the government ban all types of sports betting?
Cheating during college examinations should be punished severely.
Alternative sources of energy are excellent in addressing global warming phenomena.
Good communication skills are crucial for success in business.
Should we make recycling mandatory for all?
E-books should not replace conventional books in college and university.
Should we reduce the legal age for acquiring a driving license in the UK?
Every business should invest in innovation.
Competition: Is it a good thing?
Are girls too mean in relationships?
Is fashion important?

Discursive Writing Topics in Sports

Can you keep children out of danger through sports?
Girls should be allowed to participate in the same sports as boys.
Should we legalize the use of steroid alternatives in athletics?
Students should be paid for participating in school sports.
All females should be banned from taking part in extreme sports.
Alcohol and tobacco adverts should be banned from school sports events.
The rules used to guide how coaches treat players are not strict enough.
Parents should disallow their students from participating in school soccer.
Should sports betting be made legal in all countries?
Are video games sports?
Is there a way of preventing injuries in soccer?
Engaging in professional sports is a way of life and not a hobby.
Being gay in sports draws a lot of attention from the media.
Is it acceptable for a soccer coach to lose his/her emotions on the field?
Sports can result in both positive and negative impacts on a person’s health.
Chess: Should it be considered a fully-fledged type of sport like basketball and soccer?
Do athletes experience stress?

Controversial Discursive Essay Topics for You

Death penalty: Is it effective?
What are the main causes of war?

Should we abolish all tobacco products?

Abortion should be abolished.
Illegal migrants: Should they be granted the right of abode?
What should society do to reduce payment inequality between men and women?
Capitalism is the best economic model.
Should we use animals for research?
BREXIT was a huge mistake.
Computer games are bad for children.
Ballarat Rebellion: Why did it end in just 30 minutes?
Sex before marriage should be forbidden.
Is homeschooling better than normal schooling?
To succeed in business, communication is the most important thing?
Fast foods should be disqualified as food.
Parents are to blame for high levels of overweight and obesity among children.
Is globalization really important?
Should human cloning be allowed?
Online dating has ruined the importance of traditional romance.
Can politics be free and fair?

Interesting Topics for Discursive Essays

Uniforms in school limit student’s freedom of expression.
Should all steroid users be banned from all sports in the UK?
Should all court proceedings be captured on camera?
Same-sex marriages: Should they be banned?
Does workplace diversity result in higher productivity?
What is the main challenge for women in the workplace?
Post-WWII America: How did it grow?
Should parents select careers for their children?
Reading non-fiction books helps to improve a person’s writing skills.
Should famous people get involved in leadership, especially politics?
Is Yoga a more spiritual event than fasting?
Short dresses should be banned from schools and workplaces.
Is space exploration a worthy undertaking?
Do we really require social media to stay in touch with each other?
Are vegetarians healthier than meat lovers?
WWI: What was the potential of the Russian Army?
Can virtual reality become dangerous to young people?
Rock music: Is it related to Satanism?

Unique Discursive Essay Topics

Do video games have an advantage for adults?
Punishing students that include physical torture should be banned in schools.
Is the global society becoming over-regulated?
Should we allow students to rate their trainers?
What is the biggest challenge faced by learners in college today?
Movies are better than cartoons.
Should America and Canada merge to form one country?
Smartphones are excellent learning tools.
Why do teenagers feel freer to talk on social media as opposed to face-to-face?
Does the training offered in college prepare students adequately for the real world?
To be successful, hard work alone is not enough.
Is the taxation system in the US effective?
Is college tuition in the UK too expensive?
Is studying Shakespeare in college a good idea today?
Without faith, life is incomplete.

Good Discursive Essay Topics in History

What was the impact of colonization on the Native Americans?
The main causes of the American Revolution.
History of racism in the UK.
What role did women play in WWII?
How significant are the measures adopted by the US to control terrorism?
What issues caused major conflicts between the South and North, resulting in the American Civil-war?
Were Egyptian pyramids constructed using slave labor?
Did WWII spur the creation of a new set of professionals?
During WWII, soldiers were the main spreaders of the Spanish Flu.
The results of WWI caused WWII: Is it correct?
The Second Civil War in South Sudan resulted in the creation of the independent republic of South Sudan.
Spanish-American War: Was it the cheapest war in history?
Why did the Soviet invade Afghanistan?
The Haiti Revolution of 1791-1804: Was it the only successful rebellion of liberated slaves?
Socio-economic and political revolution: What is the main difference?
The Panama Canal made the country one of the fastest-growing nations in Latin America.
Mexican-American War: Why did America Carry the Day?
How are the weapons of ancient Asian Civilization reflected in their culture?
How did the decolonized African states try to decolonize their history?

List of Discursive Essay Topics in Sociology

Should governments put some limits on the freedom of speech?
Giving male workers paternity leave: Is it a good idea?
Are there circumstances when torture is acceptable?
Failed parenting: What is the right form of punishment?
What are the main causes of single-parenthood in society today?
Socialism or capitalism: What is more beneficial to society?
Are women less privileged in society?
Increase in youth crime in the society: What are the major causes?
Is beauty more perceived than intelligence?
Racial stereotyping: What are the implications?
Society and culture: What is the meeting point?
Modern technology: Has it made the globe a better place?
Ethnicity: How does it impact social class?
Is it possible to stop social violence?
What are the psychological impacts of war on children?
Family structure: Does it influence societal development?
What is the best way to encourage society to have good morals?
Is the gay culture a threat to the traditional family?
Single parenting: Has it been accepted in society?

Ideas for Discursive Essays in Nursing

Who between nurses and doctors is exposed to more health hazards?
Racial discrimination: Is it a major issue in nursing?
Do nurses play a bigger role than doctors in defining a patient’s recovery?
Should the government ban costumes that sexualize nurses?
What is the right number of nurses to have in a hospital?
Are female nurses more indifferent to patients than male ones?
Night shift nurses and day-time nurses: Who should earn more?
Nurses’ remuneration: Should their wages be at par with that of doctors?
Are most nurses negligent?
The importance of interpersonal skills in nursing?
What is the impact of nursing theories in nursing practice?
The importance of leadership and managerial skills in nursing.
Sociological issues in nursing.
Do nurses face racial issues in their course of work?

Use Essay Writing Help to Craft A-Rated Discursive Essays

Once you have selected the preferred topic to write a discursive essay on, it marks the start of the next phase, which is the actual writing of the paper. Here, you need to have top-notch research and writing skills to be able to prepare high-quality work. You also require a good mastery of the subject under consideration and enough time to work on the paper. Rarely do students have this combination, and their best way out is working with online academic writing experts.

The professionals offering academic writing services have been on this type of job for years and amassed enough experience. Indeed, they are likely to have handled similar types of paper before, and yours will be pretty easy to complete. The services are also cheap and the writers can work really fast to complete even the essays with the tightest deadlines. You can never go wrong with an expert holding your hand!

Get on top of your homework.

Five Tips on Choosing Good Topics for a Discursive Essay

Locating a great topic is important because students’ entire research depends on it. Here are five top ways to do it:

Consider your personal interests . High-quality custom essay writing always gets the highest praise from professors. To increase the uniqueness and value of your paper, dedicate it to a theme you genuinely like. Maybe there is something you constantly argue over on X; perhaps your favourite movie character has a hobby you’d like to explore scientifically. Choose a topic you feel connected to, and you’ll love writing your essay.
Choose something extra relevant . What worries the world most? The discursive essay topics example is great when it’s current and widely known. Staying up-to-date with the news and trends never fails to deliver great results.
Go for the most controversial areas . Exploring a subject that multiple people have the most passionate and heated debates over might be interesting.
Pick the most researched topic . There is nothing wrong with going the easiest route and choosing a topic that has been researched to death. You’ll find many sources and opinions, so you’ll immediately have what to choose from.
Select the least researched topic . If you like challenges, working with a rare and under-researched subject might feel thrilling.

Key Features of a Strong Discursive Paper

So, what should premium quality discursive writing look like? Be sure your essay includes these four aspects:

Objectivity. Don’t try to make some arguments look weaker than they are just because you dislike them — and vice versa.
Formal writing. Maintain a strict academic tone. Avoid contractions, phrasal verbs, and other informalities.
Extensive research. Include plenty of credible sources in your essay.
Equality. Present all the points equally. It’s not okay to dedicate 10 sentences to one argument and just 2 sentences to another one.

Higher English Discursive Essay Topics

UK students who study higher English should know everything about it, from language to literature to its history. Does that sound intriguing? Then, on to the higher discursive essay topics!

What do such terms as “pro-ship” and “anti-ship” mean?
Is literacy important to an average person?
Explain what higher education means globally
Are scholarships becoming harder to obtain?
Have e-books replaced printed books?
AI versus human writers: who is better?
Is fanfiction a form of literature?
Are romance novels better now, or were they more compelling a century ago?
Does learning languages help understand diverse cultures?
How many languages can a person realistically speak?

Good Discursive Essay Topics for High School

High-school students can get away with researching simpler concepts. Here are some examples of topics for discourse essays of this level:

Do bitcoins still have a future?
Is wearing a school uniform necessary?
Does love cause more pleasure or pain?
What was the best time for women historically?
How can students fight climate change?
Can killing ever be justified?
Is history, as modern people know it, trustworthy?
What harms health more, tea or coffee?
Have cell phones become better in the last 5 years?
Is it better to be an extrovert or an introvert?

Discursive Essay Topics for College Students

College requires more complicated research. Look at these good discursive essay topics:

Should people participate in medical trials?
Ideal global drinking age
Should educational establishments use corporal punishment?
Has online education made students’ lives better?
Is social media dangerous?
Optimal number of work days per week
How many hours of sleep do people need?
Why is TikTok so popular among teens?
Are private schools necessary, or should public schools cater to everyone?
Is a college education worth it in terms of effort and money?

Controversial Discursive Essay Topics

Controversy generates passion, making our blood run hotter. It intimidates some students, pushing them to contact us, asking, “Please write my essay for me ” sometimes. That said, if you want to write your paper yourself, try these best discursive essay topics:

Should getting a COVID-19 vaccine be mandatory?
Is Elon Musk a visionary or a fraud?
Should the government have secrets from people?
Should reproduction be selective?
Are there more smart or stupid individuals in the world currently?
Should Ukraine agree to negotiate with Russia?
Is reading books overrated?
Who killed JonBenet Ramsey?
What is the explanation for the Bermuda Triangle?
Is genetic engineering in humans ethical?

Mental Health Topics For a Discursive Essay

Life can be pressing, and mental health issues are becoming ever more relevant. That’s why writing discursive essays on them is always interesting. Here are just a few mental health-related essay topics you can explore:

Do rich people have more or fewer mental health problems?
Why are depression rates rising despite the increased awareness and more help avenues?
Is it possible to spot a person who plans on committing suicide?
Why do many psychologists have mental and emotional problems?
Is social media harmful to mental health?
Does the UK need more mental health awareness campaigns?
What is the most dangerous mental problem?
Is autism a form of mental illness?
Is there a link between sexuality and mental health?
Are children brought up by same-sex parents happier than those raised in traditional families?

Funny Topics For a Discursive Essay

Enough of tragedies and depression. Have some amusing discursive writing topics instead:

Zombie apocalypse survival
What do pets do when their owners leave home?
Is napping at work beneficial?
Extraterrestrial neighbours. Why are aliens avoiding us?
Should adults have mandatory comfort toys?
Dangers of binge-watching TW shows
How to be an adult? Basic skills.
Daily challenges of left-handed people
Laziness as a survival skill
Pets as political leaders

Interesting Topics For a Discursive Essay

Here’s a list of diverse topics that our experts find personally stimulating. Who knows, you might share some of their preferences.

Why do people think about Eurovision 2024?
Is doomsday coming?
Does religion cause more harm than good?
Who is most children’s favourite parent by gender?
Are dogs smarter than cats?
What are the world’s biggest misconceptions?
What do all religions have in common?
Should we allow voting at 16?
What is the role of urban gardening in a big city?
The world's most popular song and the key to its popularity

Looking to Relax Instead of Writing Essays?

GRAB 20% DISCOUNT

Why Is It Difficult to Write Papers Even on the Greatest Discursive Essay Ideas?

Multiple UK students love their subjects. They pick a topic they’re interested in, but sometimes they choose to buy an essay anyway. Why is that? In truth, writing a powerful discursive paper might be frustrating. Look at these frequent problems and check our experts’ solutions:


Too much research data is available	It is easy to get lost in a sea of information. Determine how many views you will include in your paper, then choose several articles or books that represent them.
The topic is not unique enough	It’s challenging to find unique discursive essay topics, but you can do it by browsing lists like ours and hiring an expert to create an exclusive theme just for you.
The lack of good sources	If the topic is rare, students may struggle with locating a sufficient number of credible sources in their library. Try Google Scholar. As an alternative, consult your professor. They might appreciate your serious approach.
The structure is too complex	Combining all the views can be hard. The best approach is writing down all the points you’ll cover and then breaking them into categories based on their differences/similarities. Dedicate one paragraph to the supporters of the idea and the next to those who oppose it.

FAQ About Finding the Right Topics for Discursive Essay

What is discursive writing in comparison to argumentative papers? In argumentative papers, writers pick their points of view and argue in their favour. They might mention the opposition's views but focus on their personal beliefs. Discursive essays are more objective. You need to dedicate equal attention to all the points and limit your own thoughts to a minimum.
What 2 types of discursive papers do I need to know about? Roughly, discursive writing is divided into persuasive and argumentative papers. They have their differences that students should learn before they attempt to write anything.
What is a discursive statement? In most cases, this phrase refers to a thesis statement in a discursive paper. It has to reflect your topic in one single line.
Is it bad if my topic is overly extensive? It’s better to break broad topics into something more specific. Watch out for the word count: it’ll help you calculate how many points you can explore.
What formatting should I stick to when writing my discursive essay? APA and MLA are both common formats. Unless your professors suggest differently, follow the academic rules you follow in other projects. Your title should be medium-sized; the discursive essay introduction and conclusion shouldn’t exceed 10% of your word count, and no informal words should be present.
Other articles
Vital Tips on How to Write a Dissertation Introduction
How to Start an Assignment Introduction Like an Expert
How to Write a Personal Statement for College
Top Tourist Attractions in England for Students

Writers are verified and tested to comply with quality standards.

Work is completed in time and delivered before deadline.

Wide range of subjects and topics of any difficulty covered.

Read testimonials to learn why customers trust us.

See how it works from order placement to delivery.

Client id #: 000229

You managed to please my supervisor on the first try! Whoa, I've been working with him for over a year and never turned in a paper without having to rewrite it at least once, lol I wonder if he thinks something's wrong with me now.

Client id #: 000154

Your attention to details cannot but makes me happy. Your professional writer followed every single instruction I gave and met the deadline. The text itself is full of sophisticated lexis and well-structured. I was on cloud nine when I looked through it. And my professor is satisfied as well. Million thanks!

Client id #: 000234

I contacted their call-center to specify the possible custom deadline dates prior to making an order decision and it felt like they hadn't even considered a possibility of going beyond the standard urgency. I didn't even want an additional discount for the extended time, just want to make sure I'll have enough time for editing if necessary. Made an order for standard 14 days, we'll see.

Client id #: 000098

I have no idea how you managed to do this research paper so quickly and professionally. But the result is magnificent. Well-structured, brilliantly written and with all the elements I asked for. I am already filling out my next order from you.

Verify originality of an essay

Get ideas for your paper

Find top study documents

How to write a discursive essay: step-by-step guideline

Updated 17 Jun 2024

Many students struggle with discursive writing as it can be tricky. It’s hard to manage different opinions and create a well-organized argument, leaving learners feeling unsure. In this article, we want to make creating discursive essays less confusing by giving helpful tips. If you grasp the essential information and follow our advice, you can tackle the challenges of this essay style and learn how to express convincing and well-thought-out ideas. Come with us as we explore the basic dos and don’ts for making successful writing.

What is a discursive essay?

This type of academic writing explores and presents various perspectives on a particular topic or issue. Unlike an argumentative essay, where the author takes a clear stance on the subject, discursive writing aims to provide a balanced and nuanced discussion of different viewpoints. What is the discursive essay meaning? The first word implies a conversation or discussion. So, the text encourages an exploration of diverse opinions and arguments.

This homework, commonly assigned in higher academia, serves various purposes:

Students analyze diverse perspectives, fostering critical thinking as they weigh different viewpoints before forming a conclusion.
Such essays involve thorough research, requiring students to synthesize information from various sources and present a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
When struggling with how to write my essay for me , students develop their communication skills as they should express complex ideas clearly and coherently, creating smooth transitions between arguments.
While not demanding a fixed stance, discursive papers require persuasive writing skills. The authors present each perspective convincingly, regardless of personal endorsement.
Encouraging an appreciation for the issue’s complexity, the essays promote tolerance for diverse opinions.

In summary, these papers contribute to developing analytical, research, and communication skills, preparing students for nuanced engagement with complex topics in academic and professional settings.

What is the difference between discursive and argumentative essays?

While these documents may exhibit certain similarities, it’s crucial to underscore the notable distinctions that characterize them, delineating their unique objectives and methodologies.

Discursive essays

Objective presentation: A five paragraph essay of this type aims to provide a comprehensive discussion on a particular topic without necessarily taking a clear stance.
Multiple perspectives: Writers explore different viewpoints, neutrally presenting arguments and counterarguments.
Complexity: These essays often deal with complex issues, encouraging a nuanced understanding of the subject.
Balanced tone and language: Such writing allows for a more open expression of different ideas using objective and formal language.
Flexible structure: These texts allow for a free-flowing topic analysis and may express numerous ideas in separate sections.
Conclusion: While a discursive essay example may express the writer's opinion, it doesn’t necessarily require a firm conclusion or a call to action.

Argumentative essays

Clear stance: This type involves taking a specific position and defending it with strong, persuasive arguments.
Focused argumentation: The primary goal is to convince the reader of the writer's position, providing compelling evidence and logical reasoning.
Counterarguments: While an argumentative essay acknowledges opposing views, the focus is on refuting them to strengthen the writer’s position.
Assertive tone: This type aims to present ideas from the writer’s perspective and convict the reader using evidence and reasoning.
Rigid structure: These texts come with a clear structure with a distinct introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs with arguments and reasoning, and a conclusion that highlights the author’s stance.
Call to action or conclusion: Such papers often conclude with a clear summary of the arguments and may include a call to action or a statement of the writer’s position.

The key distinction lies in the intent: discursive texts foster a broader understanding by presenting multiple perspectives. At the same time, argumentative papers aim to persuade the reader to adopt a specific viewpoint through strong, focused arguments.

Save your time! We can take care of your essay

Proper editing and formatting
Free revision, title page, and bibliography
Flexible prices and money-back guarantee

Discursive writing types

When delving into discursive essay format, exploring three primary forms of writing is essential.

1. Opinion essay.

In an opinion essay , your viewpoint on the discussed problem is crucial.
State your opinion in the introduction, supported by examples and reasons.
Present the opposing argument before the conclusion, explaining why you find it unconvincing.
Summarize your important points in the conclusion.

2. Essay providing a solution to a problem.

Focus on discussing an issue and proposing solutions.
Introduce the issue at the beginning of the text.
Detail possible solutions in separate body paragraphs.
Summarize your opinion in the conclusion.

3. For and against essay.

Write it as a debate with opposing opinions.
Describe each viewpoint objectively, presenting facts.
Set the stage for the problem in your discursive essay intro.
Explore reasons, examples, and facts in the main body.
Conclude with your opinion on the matter.

If you need professional writers' support when working on your homework, you may always pay for essay writing . Our experts can explain how to create different types of papers and suggest techniques to make them well-thought-out and compelling.

Discursive essay structure

Discover a concise outline that will help structure your thoughts and arguments, allowing for a comprehensive and articulate presentation of your ideas.

A. Hook or opening statement

B. Background information on the topic

C. Thesis statement (indicate the topic and your stance, if applicable)

(number of paragraphs can vary based on essay length)

A. Presentation of perspective (1)

1. Statement of perspective (1)

2. Supporting evidence/examples

3. Analysis and discussion

B. Presentation of perspective (2)

1. Statement of perspective (2)

2. Supporting evidence/examples

3. Analysis and discussion

C. Presentation of perspective (3) (if applicable)

1. Statement of perspective (3)

2. Supporting evidence/examples

3. Analysis and discussion

D. Presentation of counterarguments

1. Acknowledge opposing views

2. Refute or counter opposing arguments

3. Provide evidence supporting your perspective

A. Summary of main points

B. (if applicable)

C. Closing thoughts or call to action (if applicable)

The length of the discursive introduction example and the number of body paragraphs can vary based on the topic's complexity and the text's required length. Additionally, adjust the outline according to specific assignment guidelines or your personal preferences.

10 steps to create an essay

Many students wonder how to write a discursive essay. With the following guidelines, you can easily complete it as if you were one of the professional essay writers for hire . Look at these effective steps and create your outstanding text.

1. Choose an appropriate topic:

Select a topic that sparks interest and is debatable. Ensure it is suitable for discursive examples with multiple viewpoints.

2. Brainstorm your ideas:

Gather information from various sources to understand different perspectives on the chosen topic.
Take notes on key arguments, evidence, and counterarguments.

3. Develop a clear thesis:

Formulate a thesis statement that outlines your main idea. This could include your stance on the topic or a commitment to exploring various viewpoints.

4. Create a discursive essay outline:

Structure your text with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Outline the main points you want to cover in each section.

5. Write the introduction:

Begin with a hook to grab the reader's attention.
Provide background information on the topic.
Clearly state your thesis or the purpose of the essay.

6. Create body paragraphs:

Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence.
Present different perspectives on the topic in separate paragraphs.
Support each perspective with relevant evidence and examples.
Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each viewpoint.
Use smooth transitions between paragraphs.

7. Suggest counterarguments:

Devote a section to acknowledging and addressing counterarguments.
Refute or explain why you find certain counterarguments unconvincing.

8. Write the conclusion:

Summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
Restate your thesis or the overall purpose of the essay.
Provide a concise discursive essay conclusion, highlighting the significance of the topic.

9. Proofread and revise:

Review your work for clarity, coherence, and logical flow.
Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors.
Ensure that your arguments are well-supported and effectively presented.

10. Finalize and submit:

Make any necessary revisions based on feedback or additional insights.
Ensure every discursive sentence in your paper meets specific requirements provided by your instructor.
Submit your well-crafted document.

Following these steps will help you produce a well-organized and thought-provoking text that effectively explores and discusses the chosen topic.

Dos and don’ts when completing a discursive essay

If you want more useful writing tips, consider the dos and don’ts to create an impactful and compelling text.

Thorough research: Do conduct extensive research on the topic to gather a diverse range of perspectives and solid evidence. It will strengthen your discursive thesis statement and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
Clear structure: Do organize your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that present different viewpoints, and a concise conclusion. Use a separate paragraph to introduce every point. This structure helps readers follow your argument effectively.
Neutral tone: Do maintain a balanced tone and impersonal style throughout the essay. Avoid being overly emotional or biased, as the goal is to present a fair discussion of various perspectives.
Critical analysis: Do critically analyze each perspective, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. Build your discursive thesis on trustworthy sources and make appropriate references following the rules of the required citation style. This showcases your critical thinking ability and contributes to a more nuanced discussion.
Smooth transitions: Do use smooth transitions between paragraphs and arguments to create a cohesive flow. The use of linking phrases and words enhances the readability of your text and makes it easier for the reader to follow your line of reasoning.

Don’ts:

Avoid biased language: Don’t use biased language or favor one perspective over another. Maintain an objective tone and present each viewpoint with equal consideration.
Don’t oversimplify: Avoid oversimplifying complex issues. Acknowledge the nuances of the topic and provide a nuanced discussion that reflects a deep understanding of the subject matter.
Steer clear of generalizations: Don’t make broad generalizations without supporting evidence. Ensure that relevant and credible sources back your arguments to strengthen your position.
Don’t neglect counterarguments: Avoid neglecting counterarguments. Acknowledge opposing views and address them within your discursive essays. It adds credibility to your work and thoroughly examines the topic.
Don’t be too personal : Avoid expressing your personal opinion too persistently, and don’t use examples from your individual experience.
Refrain from unsupported claims: Don’t make claims without supporting them with evidence. Substantiate your arguments with reliable sources and statistics with proper referencing to enhance the credibility of your document.

By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of writing a discursive text and present a well-rounded and convincing discussion.

Final thoughts

Mastering the art of writing a discursive essay is a valuable skill that equips students with critical thinking, research, and communication abilities. If your essay-writing journey is challenging, consider seeking assistance from EduBirdie, a trusted companion that guides students through the intricacies of these papers and helps them answer the question, “What is discursive writing?”. With our support, you can navigate the challenges of crafting a compelling and well-rounded discourse, ensuring success in your academic endeavors. Embrace the assistance of EduBirdie and elevate your writing experience to new heights.

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback.

Written by Steven Robinson

Steven Robinson is an academic writing expert with a degree in English literature. His expertise, patient approach, and support empower students to express ideas clearly. On EduBirdie's blog, he provides valuable writing guides on essays, research papers, and other intriguing topics. Enjoys chess in free time.

Learn how to write a deductive essay that makes you proud!

Learning how to write a deductive essay may sound like a challenging task. Yet, things become much easier when you master the definition and the ob...

A Guide On How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay

This particular term refers to a type of essay written to discuss a specific idea, voice clip, written piece or a video, using purely one’s ideas, ...

Join our 150K of happy users

Get original papers written according to your instructions
Save time for what matters most

150 Excellent Discursive Essay Topics for Students To Consider

Table of Contents

Do you want to write an engaging discursive essay? Are you struggling to come up with the best discursive essay topics for your assignment? Don’t worry! To help you with discursive essay writing, here, in this blog post, we have explained what a discursive essay means, its types, and the simple steps for writing it. Also, we have shared some interesting discursive essay topics and ideas to consider for assignments.

If you don’t know where to begin your essay, then keep on reading this blog post and update your knowledge on discursive essay writing.

What is a Discursive Essay?

A discursive essay is a type of academic essay in which you have to share your opinions or views in support of the topic or against the topic. Even at certain times, this essay would permit you to present your views on both sides of a topic in a neutral manner.

The ultimate aim of a discursive essay is to provide the readers with multiple viewpoints on a particular essay help topic or idea. Therefore, while writing a discursive essay, you will have to think deeper from various perspectives and review all the aspects of the subject.

Basically, a discursive essay appears like an argumentative essay or persuasive essay , but it is actually different from them in certain ways. In a nutshell, a discursive essay discusses arguments in a balanced way taking into account all the factors that are for and against the topic.

Types of Discursive Essays

The discursive essay is classified into three types as listed below.

For and Against Essay

It is a form of discursive essay that will argumentatively discuss either for or against the topic or theme. When writing an essay of this type, you should make sure to concentrate on both the advantages and disadvantages of the topic and present your views neutrally. Particularly, before wrapping up the essay, you should showcase your opinion on the topic by specifying your preference.

Solutions Recommending Essay

This discursive essay type will outline the issue and will recommend several possible solutions for that issue. But when you wrap up this essay, in the conclusion paragraph, you should highlight your opinion on the best solution to the issue and explain why that solution is effective.

Opinion Essay

It is a kind of discursive essay in which you have to share your opinions or arguments on a specific topic with supporting evidence from credible sources. Most importantly, while concluding this essay, you should remember to put forward your arguments against the topic and explain the reason why they are not persuasive.

How to Write a Discursive Essay

Do you wonder how to prepare a discursive essay? Cool! Writing a discursive essay will not be so hard when you have a proper essay plan and idea about the essay structure. In general, a discursive essay is a formal essay in which you have to organize and present the ideas in a way that is easy for the readers to understand.

Here are some essential steps that would guide you to craft an excellent discursive essay.

First, read and understand the essay writing guidelines shared by your instructor.
Matching your instructor’s instructions, find a perfect discursive essay topic that allows you to share your opinions.
Next, research the selected topic and gather the important points or arguments for discussion.
After analyzing the topic, prepare a well-structured discursive essay outline that includes sections such as introduction, body, and conclusion.
With the help of the prepared essay outline, start preparing the first draft of the essay according to the standard essay structure.
Open the essay with a catchy introductory paragraph. The introduction should have an engaging hook statement, background information, and a strong thesis statement relevant to the essay topic.
Craft the body paragraphs. The body of the essay should discuss in detail all the major arguments supporting your thesis statement with valid evidence.
Wrap up the essay with a conclusion paragraph. The conclusion section should portray your feelings about the topic and list out all the necessary findings.
Add a reference page and list out the original source of the ideas you have used in your essay.
Before submission, double-check the entire draft of the essay and edit the grammar, spelling, or logical errors in it. The final draft of the essay should be original and free from errors.

Discursive Essay Writing Tips

By following all the above-mentioned steps in order, you can come up with a great discursive essay. But besides, we also recommend you stick to the below-mentioned tips when writing a discursive essay because it would help you to fine-tune your essay format and structure.

Tips for Writing a Brilliant Discursive Essay

Write the discursive essay in a formal third-person speech.
When writing this essay, use the right choice of words and formal language conventions.
Avoid using emotional writing style and clichés to exaggerate your opinions.
Follow the standard essay structure that contains separate sections for the introduction, body, and conclusion.
Explain the arguments using a balanced and calm tone.
Use well-known real-life examples as proof to explain the main arguments.
Never change the original structure of a discursive essay.
Add references to all the ideas taken from external sources.
Make sure to use transition words in between the paragraphs to maintain a smooth and seamless narration flow.
Include persuasive writing techniques such as hyperbole, imagery, metaphors, oxymoron, repetition, and similes at the appropriate places, if needed.

Tips For Choosing a Good Discursive Essay Topic

In the discursive essay writing process, topic selection is the first step that you can’t skip. Generally, you won’t find it hard to identify a topic when your instructor provides a list of discursive essay prompts for you to choose from. But the real challenge comes only when you are given the option to choose a topic of your choice.

For writing a discursive essay, there are numerous topics available on various subjects. Out of them all, based on your interest, you can search and identify any good topic. But the problem here is, when you have many topics, then finding one perfect topic from them would become too hard to handle.

So, to help you identify the right essay topic, here we have shared some key tips to keep in mind during the discursive essay topic selection phase.

Pick a topic in which you have a strong opinion or knowledge.
Go with the topic that is convenient for you to write about.
Avoid selecting a frequently discussed topic.
Identify a topic that is interesting for you and your readers.
Choose a controversial topic in which you can raise varying viewpoints or opinions.
Select a complex topic with two sides, so that you can extract more arguments that are for and against it.
Give preference to the topic that has many valid facts or evidence to prove your arguments.
Finalize the essay topic only if it meets your instructor’s essay writing guidelines, if there are any.

List of Discursive Essay Topics

Here are some unique discursive essay topic ideas on various disciplines.

If you don’t know what topic to choose for your discursive essay, feel free to access the entire list below and spot any topic that suits you perfectly.

Best Discursive Essay Topics

Do space explorations assure long-term survival?
Is the current education system productive?
Is English one of the toughest languages to learn?
Does reading non-fiction build up the writers’ creativity?
Do parents have to reward their children for behaving well?
Describe the best kind of parenting observed in your country.
Should tobacco production be made illegal across the world?
Which is better: reading e-book or paperback?
Discuss the effective ways to keep children away from the use of drugs.
Are acts of sex and violence acceptable on TV?
Is the dependency on technology making us dumber?
Is rock music related to Satanism?
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using mobile phones.
Has blockchain enhanced trade finance in 2018?
Can virtual reality turn out to be dangerous for youngsters?
Should social media platforms be banned from collecting their users’ data?
Do companies have to hire human workers instead of using autonomous machines?
Should cell phones be banned from vehicles?
Has the internet made society better?
Should parents limit screen time for kids?

Excellent Discursive Essay Topics

What are the advantages and disadvantages of globalization?
Is it essential to ban steroid takers from sports?
Are political authorities involved in illegal activities?
Discuss the association between food, fitness, and weight.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of video games among teenagers?
Should schools avoid punishing students that include physical torture?
Is society becoming over-regulated?
How can students contribute to the safety of nature?
Do schools have to ban uniforms?
Explain the adverse effects of detox diets.
Why are policymakers pushing STEM education nowadays?
Should the government ban same-sex marriages?
Should there be restrictions on freedom of speech?
What are the workplace challenges faced by women?
Will robots in the future add to our efficiency?
Does every country have to ban capital punishment?
Should court proceedings in the UK be documented for television?
Is print media almost dead?
Is social media having a positive impact on our lives?
Is home-schooling good for students?
Discuss the need for employees to use social networks at work
Cite reasons why internet slang like LOL should be in the dictionary
Explain the challenges of over-dependence on technology for modern schools
Critique any innovation that has made us lazier than before
Discuss why so many college athletes struggle with schoolwork

Interesting Discursive Essay Topics

Is a college education mandatory to be successful in life?
Which is better: listening to the mind or the heart?
Which is better: watching a movie on the big screen or in your home?
Should parents be honest with their kids?
Share your views about the marriage of convenience.
Is Graffiti an art?
Are plastic water bottles spoiling the environment?
Are athletes the best role models for children?
Is social media presence necessary for a small business to succeed?
Should people in Muslim countries develop a religious tolerance?
Should public schools have a responsibility to teach social-emotional skills to students?
Is the best music founded on social oppression?
Should animal sports be banned?
Should zoos be abolished?
Is cutting hands the only way to stop corruption?
Should polio vaccinations be compulsory for every citizen of the United States?
Is it good to believe that car seats are effective to keep children safe in car crashes?
Should social media sites be banned from collecting their users’ data?
Should healthcare professionals be allowed to market and sell drugs to their patients?
Should companies switch to hiring employees using autonomous machines?

Amazing Discursive Essay Prompts

Explain the scenario of healthcare and medicine in the 1900s.
Is Facebook really needed to stay in touch with each other?
Should short dresses be restricted from the workplace?
Should offshore drilling be widened?
Should famous people in society stay active in politics?
Is social media contributing to a more narcissistic society?
Is IoT no longer a tool that screws up privacy and security?
Is studying Shakespeare outdated in today’s world?
Does workplace diversity contribute to increased productivity?
Are contemporary people across the world depending too much on technology?
Should the average driving age in your country be reduced or increased?
Is yoga a more spiritual activity than fasting?
Discuss the pros and cons of peer pressure.
Are non-vegetarians healthier than vegetarians?
Discuss your viewpoints on cryptocurrency.
Analyze the future of cryptocurrencies
Should there be more parties in the United States?
Should college students be restricted from participating in Greek life?
Is co-education better than single-sex education?
Should college students get to autonomy to choose which professor’s class they attain?

Read more: Amazing Descriptive Essay Topics and Ideas for Students

Captivating Discursive Essay Ideas

Is radio important as a form of media in the 21st century?
Discuss the prospect of having a woman president.
Discuss the mortgage crisis in the economy.
Is it important to heavily regulate newspapers?
Is earning money through the lottery a good idea?
Does technology isolate the individual?
Why an assassination can never be justified?
Discuss the challenges in outsourcing to foreign countries.
Should rape victims be hanged to death?
Explain how the celebrity culture is spoiling the moral values of young teenagers.

Outstanding Discursive Essay Topics

Do social media platforms affect the academic performance of students?
Should the government censor rap music culture?
Are tattoos and paganism related to each other?
Do airlines have to provide a two-seat policy for heavier people?
Are dating websites a good place to meet romantic partners?
Are drug abuse commercials effective?
Is the military’s use of drones an invasion of privacy?
Should GMOs be allowed in food?
Discuss the negative and positive effects of Blockchain on energy.
Why should we prohibit the destruction of rainforests?
Do energy drinks cause health risks to teenagers?
Should text message acronyms be added to dictionaries?
Does the gaming world promote problematic gender and racial stereotypes?
Do all adults need eight hours of sleep?
Is cheerleading a way to objectify young women?

Read more: Sample GRE Essay Topics To Practice

Compelling Discursive Essay Topics

Which is better: nuclear families or joint families?
Is social media more relevant these days than traditional media?
Is it essential to emphasize etiquette in all curriculums?
Are apps more of a help or a waste of time?
Do contact sports encourage aggression?
Do video games have educational value?
Is it possible to create a society based on matriarchy?
Should schoolchildren learn religion as a part of their curriculum?
Is it important to ban beauty contests?
Do politicians rely on the media in order to remain in power?

Incredible Discursive Essay Topics

Discuss the prospect of making education a free for all affair
Explain how the concept of consumer debt affects purchasing ability.
Discuss the correlation between the price of textbooks and education
Should zoos, circuses, and aquariums be closed for the violation of animal rights?
Discuss the ethical prospect of bringing back extinct species through cloning
Is it necessary to abolish the grading system in the education field?
Explain the challenges that different countries face when trying to end poaching.
Should the case for equal pay for equal work be advanced?
Explain how the sitting government perpetuates poverty.
Why is it important to allow college students to choose the course they wish to study?

From the above-recommended list of unique discursive essay topics, without any hesitation, select a topic matching your interest and prepare an extraordinary discursive essay. Haven’t you identified the right discursive essay topic for your assignment yet? Do you need instant discursive essay writing help? Contact us now!

110 Hard Words to Spell for Students and Adults

Learn How to Avoid Passive Voice in 3 Simple Steps

117 Best Greek Mythology Essay Topics For Students

About author.

Jacob Smith

I am an Academic Writer and have affection to share my knowledge through posts’. I do not feel tiredness while research and analyzing the things. Sometime, I write down hundred of research topics as per the students requirements. I want to share solution oriented content to the students.

Comments are closed.

Featured Posts

140 Unique Geology Research Topics to Focus On

200+ outstanding world history topics and ideas 2023, 190 excellent ap research topics and ideas, 150+ trending group discussion topics and ideas, 170 funny speech topics to blow the minds of audience, who invented exams learn the history of examination, how to focus on reading 15 effective tips for better concentration, what is a rhetorical analysis essay and how to write it, primary school teacher in australia- eligibility, job role, career options, and salary, 4 steps to build a flawless business letter format, get help instantly.

Raise Your Grades with Assignment Help Pro

How to Write a Discursive Essay: Awesome Guide and Template

The term "discursive" comes from the Latin word "discursus," meaning to move around or traverse. A discursive essay reflects this by exploring multiple viewpoints and offering a thorough discussion on a specific topic.

In this article, our term paper writing service will define what a discursive essay is, distinguish it from an argumentative essay, provide practical tips on how to write one effectively, and examine essay examples to illustrate its structure and approach.

What Is a Discursive Essay

A discursive essay is a type of essay where you discuss a topic from various viewpoints. The goal is to provide a balanced analysis by exploring different perspectives. Your essay should present arguments on the topic, showing both sides to give a comprehensive view.

Features of discursive essays typically include:

Thesis Statement: Clearly states your position or argument on the topic.
Discussion of Perspectives: Examines different viewpoints or aspects of the issue.
Evidence and Examples: Supports arguments with relevant evidence and examples.
Counterarguments: Addresses opposing viewpoints to strengthen your position.
Logical Organization: Structured to present arguments coherently and persuasively.

Ready to Transform Your Essays?

From discursive writing to academic triumphs, let your words soar with our essay writing service!

How to Write a Discursive Essay

Writing a discursive essay involves examining a topic from different angles and presenting balanced viewpoints. Whether you're tackling a controversial issue or analyzing a complex subject, following these steps will help you craft a well-structured discursive essay.

1. Understand the Topic

Before you start writing, make sure you grasp the topic thoroughly. Identify key terms and concepts to clarify what you need to discuss. Consider the different aspects and perspectives related to the topic that you will explore in your essay.

2. Research and Gather Evidence

Research is crucial for a discursive essay. Gather information from reliable sources such as books, academic journals, and reputable websites. Collect evidence that supports various viewpoints on the topic. Note down quotes, statistics, and examples that you can use to strengthen your arguments.

3. Plan Your Structure

Organize your essay effectively to ensure clarity and coherence. Start with an introduction that states your thesis or main argument. Outline the main points or perspectives you will discuss in the body paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a different aspect or viewpoint, supported by evidence. Consider including a paragraph that addresses counterarguments to strengthen your position.

4. Write the Introduction

Begin your essay with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader's attention. Start with a hook or an intriguing fact related to the topic. Clearly state your thesis statement, which outlines your position on the issue and previews the main points you will discuss. The introduction sets the tone for your essay and provides a roadmap for what follows.

5. Develop the Body Paragraphs

The body of your essay should present a balanced discussion of the topic. Each paragraph should focus on a different perspective or argument. Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea. Support your points with evidence, examples, and quotes from your research. Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain the flow of your argument.

6. Conclude Effectively

Wrap up your essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes the main points and reinforces your thesis statement. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion. Instead, reflect on the significance of your arguments and how they contribute to the broader understanding of the topic. End with a thought-provoking statement or a call to action, encouraging readers to consider the complexities of the issue.

If you find this kind of writing challenging, simply say ' write my paper ', and professional writers will handle it for you.

Discursive Guide Checklist

Aspect 📝	Checklist ✅
Understanding the Topic	Have I thoroughly understood the topic and its key terms? Have I identified the different perspectives or viewpoints related to the topic?
Research and Evidence	Have I conducted comprehensive research using reliable sources? Have I gathered sufficient evidence, including quotes, statistics, and to support each perspective?
Structuring the Essay	Have I planned a clear and logical structure for my essay? Does my introduction include a strong thesis statement that outlines my position?
Introduction	Does my introduction effectively grab the reader's attention? Have I clearly stated my thesis statement that previews the main arguments?
Body Paragraphs	Do my body paragraphs each focus on a different perspective or argument? Have I provided evidence and examples to support each argument?
Counterarguments	Have I addressed potential counterarguments to strengthen my position? Have I acknowledged and responded to opposing viewpoints where necessary?
Conclusion	Does my conclusion effectively summarize the main points discussed? Have I reinforced my thesis statement and the significance of my arguments?
Clarity and Coherence	Are my ideas presented in a clear and coherent manner? Do my paragraphs flow logically from one to the next?
Language and Style	Have I used clear and concise language throughout the essay? Is my writing style appropriate for the academic context, avoiding overly casual language?
Editing and Proofreading	Have I proofread my essay for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors? Have I checked the overall structure and flow of my essay for coherence?

Discursive Essay Examples

Here, let’s take a look at our samples and see how different topics are discussed from different viewpoints in real discursive essays.

If you found these examples helpful, you can order custom essay now and receive one on any topic you choose.

Discursive Essay Topics

Here are a range of topics that encourage exploration of different perspectives and critical analysis. Choose a topic that interests you and allows for a balanced analysis of arguments and evidence.

Should governments impose higher taxes on sugary drinks to combat obesity?
Is homeschooling beneficial for children's education?
Should the use of drones for military purposes be restricted?
Should the legal drinking age be lowered or raised?
Is online education as effective as traditional classroom learning?
Should parents be held legally responsible for their children's actions?
Is artificial intelligence a threat to human employment?
Are video games a positive or negative influence on young people?
Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
Should schools teach mindfulness and meditation techniques?
Is cultural diversity in the workplace beneficial for companies?
Should prisoners have the right to vote?
Is social media addiction a real problem?
Should plastic packaging be replaced with eco-friendly alternatives?
Is it ethical to clone animals for agricultural purposes?
Should the government provide subsidies for electric vehicles?
Is privacy more important than national security?
Should school uniforms be mandatory?
Is renewable energy the future of our planet?
Should parents have access to their children's social media accounts?

By the way, we also have a great collection of narrative essay topics to inspire your creativity.

What is the Difference Between a Discursive and Argumentative Essay

Discursive essays and argumentative essays share similarities but have distinct differences in their approach and purpose. While both essay types involve critical thinking and analysis, the main difference lies in the writer's approach to the topic and the overall goal of the essay—whether it aims to explore and discuss multiple perspectives (discursive) or to argue for a specific viewpoint (argumentative). Here’s a more detailed look at how they differ:

Key Differences 📌	Discursive Essay 📝	Argumentative Essay 🗣️
Purpose 🎯	Provides a balanced discussion on a topic	Persuades the reader to agree with a specific viewpoint.
Approach 🔍	Examines multiple perspectives without taking a definitive stance	Takes a clear position and argues for or against it throughout the essay.
Thesis Statement 📜	Often states a general overview or acknowledges different viewpoints.	States a strong and specific thesis that outlines the writer's position clearly.
Argumentation 💬	Presents arguments from various angles to provide a comprehensive view.	Presents arguments that support the writer's position and refute opposing views.

Types of Discursive Essay

Before writing a discursive essay, keep in mind that they can be categorized into different types based on their specific purposes and structures. Here are some common types of discursive essays:

Opinion Essays:

Purpose: Expressing and supporting personal opinions on a given topic.
Structure: The essay presents the writer's viewpoint and provides supporting evidence, examples, and arguments. It may also address counterarguments to strengthen the overall discussion.

Problem-Solution Essays:

Purpose: Identifying a specific problem and proposing effective solutions.
Structure: The essay introduces the problem, discusses its causes and effects, and presents possible solutions. It often concludes with a recommendation or call to action.

Compare and Contrast Essays:

Purpose: Analyzing similarities and differences between two or more perspectives, ideas, or approaches.
Structure: The essay outlines the key points of each perspective, highlighting similarities and differences. A balanced analysis is provided to give the reader a comprehensive understanding.

Cause and Effect Essays:

Purpose: Exploring the causes and effects of a particular phenomenon or issue.
Structure: The essay identifies the primary causes and examines their effects or vice versa. It may delve into the chain of events and their implications.

Argumentative Essays:

Purpose: Presenting a strong argument in favor of a specific viewpoint.
Structure: The essay establishes a clear thesis statement, provides evidence and reasoning to support the argument, and addresses opposing views. It aims to persuade the reader to adopt the writer's perspective.

Pro-Con Essays:

Purpose: Evaluating the pros and cons of a given issue.
Structure: The essay presents the positive aspects (pros) and negative aspects (cons) of the topic. It aims to provide a balanced assessment and may conclude with a recommendation or a summary of the most compelling points.

Exploratory Essays:

Purpose: Investigating and discussing a topic without necessarily advocating for a specific position.
Structure: The essay explores various aspects of the topic, presenting different perspectives and allowing the reader to form their own conclusions. It often reflects a process of inquiry and discovery.

These types of discursive essays offer different approaches to presenting information, and the choice of type depends on the specific goals of the essay and the preferences of the writer.

Discursive Essay Format

Writing a discursive essay needs careful planning to make sure it’s clear and flows well while presenting different viewpoints on a topic. Here’s how to structure your discursive essay:

Introduction

Start with an interesting opening sentence to catch the reader's attention. Give some background information on the topic to show why it’s important.
Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic, and mention that you’ll be discussing different viewpoints.

"Should genetically modified foods be more strictly regulated for consumer safety? This question sparks debates among scientists, policymakers, and consumers alike. This essay explores the different perspectives on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to give a complete view of the issues."

Body Paragraphs

Begin each paragraph with a sentence that introduces a key point or perspective about GMOs.
Present arguments, evidence, and examples to support each perspective. Consider the benefits, risks, and ethical issues around GMOs.
Address possible objections or opposing viewpoints to show a balanced analysis.

"Supporters of GMOs argue that genetically engineered crops can help solve global food shortages by increasing crop yields and resistance to pests. For example, studies have shown that GMOs like insect-resistant corn have reduced the need for chemical pesticides, which benefits both farmers and the environment."

Counterarguments

Recognize the counterarguments or concerns raised by opponents of GMOs.
Provide reasoned responses or rebuttals to these counterarguments, acknowledging the complexity of the issue.

"However, critics of GMOs worry about potential long-term health effects and environmental impacts. They argue that there isn’t enough research to ensure the safety of eating genetically modified foods over long periods."

Summarize the main points discussed in the essay about GMOs.
Reinforce your thesis statement while considering the different arguments presented.
Finish with a thought-provoking statement or suggest what should be considered for future research or policy decisions related to GMOs.

"In conclusion, the debate over genetically modified foods highlights the need to balance scientific innovation with public health and environmental concerns. While GMOs offer potential benefits for global food security, ongoing research and transparent regulation are essential to address uncertainties and ensure consumer safety."

Formatting Tips

Use clear and straightforward language throughout the essay.
Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain the flow of ideas.
Use headings and subheadings if they help organize different perspectives.
Properly cite sources when referencing research findings, quotes, or statistics.

Remember, besides writing compositions, you’ll also need to do math homework , something we can assist you with right away.

Yays and Nays of Writing Discourse Essays

In learning how to write a discursive essay, certain do's and don'ts serve as guiding principles throughout the writing process. By adhering to these guidelines, writers can navigate the complexities of presenting arguments, counterarguments, and nuanced analyses, ensuring the essay resonates with clarity and persuasiveness.

Yays 👍	Nays 👎
Conduct thorough research to ensure a well-informed discussion.	Don’t express personal opinions in the body of the essay. Save personal commentary for the conclusion.
Explore various arguments and viewpoints on the issue.	Don't introduce new information or arguments in the conclusion. This section should summarize and reflect on existing content.
Maintain a balanced and neutral tone. Present arguments objectively without personal bias.	Don’t use overly emotional or subjective language. Maintain a professional and objective tone.
Structure your essay with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Use paragraphs to organize your ideas.	Ensure your arguments are supported by credible evidence. Don’t rely on personal opinions without sufficient research.
Include clear topic sentences at the beginning of each paragraph to guide the reader through your arguments.	Don’t have an ambiguous or unclear thesis statement. Clearly state the purpose of your essay in the introduction.
Use credible evidence from reputable sources to support your arguments.	Don’t ignore counterarguments. Address opposing viewpoints to strengthen your overall argument.
Ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs and ideas with transitional words and phrases.	Don’t use overly complex language if it doesn’t add to the clarity of your arguments. Aim for clarity and simplicity.
Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different arguments and viewpoints.	Don’t present ideas in a disorganized manner. Ensure a logical flow between paragraphs and ideas.
Recap key points in the conclusion, summarizing the main arguments and perspectives discussed.	Don’t excessively repeat the same points. Present a variety of arguments and perspectives to keep the essay engaging.
Correct any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors by proofreading your essay.	Don’t ignore the guidelines provided for your assignment. Follow any specific instructions or requirements given by your instructor or institution.

Wrapping Up

Throughout this guide, you have acquired valuable insights into the art of crafting compelling arguments and presenting diverse perspectives. By delving into the nuances of topic selection, structuring, and incorporating evidence, you could hone your critical thinking skills and sharpen your ability to engage in informed discourse.

This guide serves as a roadmap, offering not just a set of rules but a toolkit to empower students in their academic journey. As you embark on future writing endeavors, armed with the knowledge gained here, you can confidently navigate the challenges of constructing well-reasoned, balanced discursive essays that contribute meaningfully to academic discourse and foster a deeper understanding of complex issues. If you want to continue your academic learning journey right now, we suggest that you read about the IEEE format next.

Overwhelmed by Essays?

Let professional writers be your writing wingman. No stress - just success!

What is a Discursive Example?

What is the difference between a discursive and argumentative essay, what are the 2 types of discursive writing.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Updated old sections including definition, outline, writing guide.
Added new topics, examples, checklist, FAQs.
Discursive writing - Discursive Writing - Higher English Revision. (n.d.). BBC Bitesize. https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zpdwwmn/revision/1
Prepare for Exam Success: C1 Advanced self-access learning Writing Part 1 -the discursive essay Lesson summary. (n.d.). Retrieved June 28, 2024, from https://www.cambridgeenglish.org/Images/583526-c1-advanced-self-access-learning-writing-part-1-discursive-essay.pdf
Tomeu. (n.d.). Advanced C1.1: How to write a DISCURSIVE ESSAY. Advanced C1.1. Retrieved June 28, 2024, from https://englishadvanced2.blogspot.com/2013/10/speakout-advanced-p-25-examples-of.html

Link to facebook
Link to linkedin
Link to twitter
Link to youtube
Writing Tips

50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read
11th June 2022

The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to understand and support your position on an issue by presenting your reasoning along with supporting evidence. It’s important to find the right balance between giving your opinions and presenting established research.

These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you’re a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we’ve compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started!

● Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

● Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

● Do violent video games teach or encourage people to behave violently?

● Should social media sites be allowed to collect users’ data?

● Should parents limit how long their children spend in front of screens?

● Is AI helping or hurting society?

● Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

● Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

● Is war always a political decision?

● Should people join a political party?

● Is capitalism ethical?

● Is the electoral college an effective system?

● Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

● Should the death penalty be legal?

● Are governments around the world doing enough to combat global warming?

● Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

● Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

● Are there any circumstances under which physician-assisted suicides should be legal?

● Should parents be able to choose specific genetic modifications of their future children?

● Should abortion be legal?

● Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

● Should patients who lead unhealthy lifestyles be denied organ transplants?

● Should doctors be able to provide medical care to children against their parents’ wishes?

Mental Healthcare

● What causes the stigma around mental health?

● Discuss the link between insufficient access to mental health services and the high suicide rates among veterans.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

● Should cannabis be used as a treatment for patients with mental disorders?

● Is there a link between social media use and mental disorders?

● Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

● Should sports be segregated by gender?

● Should male and female athletes be given the same pay and opportunities?

● Are professional athletes overpaid?

● Should college athletes be paid?

● Should sports betting be legal?

● Should online access to art such as music be free?

● Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

● Are there any circumstances under which books should be banned?

● Should schools be required to offer art courses?

● Is art necessary to society?

● Should schools require uniforms?

● Should reciting the Pledge of Allegiance be required in schools?

● Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

● Should high school students take a gap year before pursuing higher education?

● Should higher education be free?

● Is there too much pressure on high school students to attend college?

● Are children better off in two-parent households?

● Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

● Should single people be able to adopt children as easily as couples?

● Is it okay for parents to physically discipline their children?

● Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

● Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

An argument could also be made for the importance of proofreading your essay ! The reader can focus more on your message when your writing is clear, concise, and error-free, and they won’t question whether you’re knowledgeable on the issues you’re presenting. Once you have a draft ready, you can submit a free trial document to start working with our expert editors!

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Get help from a language expert. Try our proofreading services for free.

9-minute read

How to Use Infographics to Boost Your Presentation

Is your content getting noticed? Capturing and maintaining an audience’s attention is a challenge when...

8-minute read

Why Interactive PDFs Are Better for Engagement

Are you looking to enhance engagement and captivate your audience through your professional documents? Interactive...

7-minute read

Seven Key Strategies for Voice Search Optimization

Voice search optimization is rapidly shaping the digital landscape, requiring content professionals to adapt their...

How to Ace Slack Messaging for Contractors and Freelancers

Effective professional communication is an important skill for contractors and freelancers navigating remote work environments....

3-minute read

How to Insert a Text Box in a Google Doc

Google Docs is a powerful collaborative tool, and mastering its features can significantly enhance your...

2-minute read

How to Cite the CDC in APA

If you’re writing about health issues, you might need to reference the Centers for Disease...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo.

M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and argue for or against it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas available to get you started. Then you need to take a position, do some research, and present your viewpoint convincingly.

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

Students often find that most of their work on these essays is done before they even start writing. This means that it's best if you have a general interest in your subject. Otherwise, you might get bored or frustrated while trying to gather information. You don't need to know everything, though; part of what makes this experience rewarding is learning something new.

It's best if you have a general interest in your subject, but the argument you choose doesn't have to be one that you agree with.

The subject you choose may not necessarily be one you are in full agreement with, either. You may even be asked to write a paper from the opposing point of view. Researching a different viewpoint helps students broaden their perspectives.

Ideas for Argument Essays

Sometimes, the best ideas are sparked by looking at many different options. Explore this list of possible topics and see if a few pique your interest. Write those down as you come across them, then think about each for a few minutes.

Which would you enjoy researching? Do you have a firm position on a particular subject? Is there a point you would like to make sure you get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

List of 50 Possible Argumentative Essay Topics

A number of these topics are rather controversial—that's the point. In an argumentative essay , opinions matter, and controversy is based on opinions. Just make sure your opinions are backed up by facts in the essay. If these topics are a little too controversial or you don't find the right one for you, try browsing through persuasive essay and speech topics as well.

Is global climate change caused by humans?
Is the death penalty effective?
Is the U.S. election process fair?
Is torture ever acceptable?
Should men get paternity leave from work?
Are school uniforms beneficial?
Does the U.S. have a fair tax system?
Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
Is cheating out of control?
Are we too dependent on computers?
Should animals be used for research?
Should cigarette smoking be banned?
Are cell phones dangerous?
Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
Do we have a throwaway society ?
Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
Should companies market to children?
Should the government have a say in our diets?
Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
Should members of Congress have term limits?
Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
Are CEOs paid too much?
Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
Should creationism be taught in public schools?
Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
Should English be the official language of the United States?
Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
Should the alcohol-drinking age be increased or decreased?
Should everyone be required to recycle?
Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
Should same-sex marriage be legalized in more countries?
Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
Does boredom lead to trouble?
Should schools be in session year-round ?
Does religion cause war?
Should the government provide health care?
Should abortion be illegal?
Should more companies expand their reproductive health benefits for employees?
Is homework harmful or helpful?
Is the cost of college too high?
Is college admission too competitive?
Should euthanasia be illegal?
Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
Should schools require foreign language or physical education?
Is affirmative action fair?
Is public prayer okay in schools?
Are schools and teachers responsible for low test scores?
Is greater gun control a good idea?

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument

After you've decided on your essay topic, gather evidence to make your argument as strong as possible. Your research could even help shape the position your essay ultimately takes. As you craft your essay, remember to utilize persuasive writing techniques , such as invoking emotional language or citing facts from authoritative figures.

100 Persuasive Essay Topics
61 General Expository Essay Topic to Practice Academic Writing
50 Great Topics for a Process Analysis Essay
100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
Examples of Great Introductory Paragraphs
Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay
Preparing an Argument Essay: Exploring Both Sides of an Issue
Bad Essay Topics for College Admissions
How to Write a Narrative Essay or Speech
Controversial Speech Topics
How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement
MBA Essay Tips
High School Debate Topics
How to Write a Persuasive Essay
How to Ace Your University of Wisconsin Personal Statements
25 Essay Topics for American Government Classes

Limited Time Offer FLAT 20% off & $20 on sign-up grab this deal before it’s gone. Order Now

[email protected]
+61488849445

30 Dazzling Discursive Essay Topics To Up Your Essay Game

Home / Blog / 30 Dazzling Discursive Essay Topics To Up Your Essay Game

If you fought over the television remote with your dad as a kid, you would know that news channels run multiple debates all through the day. The panelists and their heated arguments over one political issue or the other may have given plenty of headaches. But in college, your professor asks you to assume your position in that very panel when setting a discursive essay.

A discursive essay, as the name suggests, is a discourse on a given topic. When you are assigned a discursive essay, you need to plan it a tad bit differently than other kinds of essays. For a discursive essay, you must present all arguments in favour of as well as against the topic with evidence to support your claims. In many ways, it is like an argumentative essay with a few structural differences.

But there is no need to panic just yet. Even though it sounds difficult, a discursive essay is not that uphill a task when you plan it well.

Read on, and you will find a few clever tips to prepare the structure of your discursive essay along with 30 amazing topics to choose from.

While writing a discursive essay, you need to strike the right balance between the arguments you present, as well as the counter-arguments that you will include in the paper. The structure of a discursive essay is similar to the following.

Introduction
Body paragraph 01: argument and supporting examples
Body paragraph 02: counter-argument and supporting examples
Body paragraphs 03 to 06: following the same argument and counter-argument structure

Pro tip 01: Never forget to run a thorough plagiarism check after you have finished writing the essay. You can use an online plagiarism checker to get it done quickly and for free.

Pro tip 02: Do not turn in the essay without editing and proofreading it thoroughly. In case you are too caught up with other tasks, get editing and proofreading help from experts online.

Picking a topic – 30 discursive essay topics to floor your professors

If you are at sea with picking a topic for your discursive essay, then you might have been going wrong about it all the while. A good discursive essay topic should not be too broad, but should also cover the essential thesis that you wish to put forth. While global or political issues are quite fascinating topics for discursive essays, keep in mind that they tend to stretch over quite a few pages.

There is a quick way to determine whether you are going the right way. Whenever you need to choose a topic for a discursive essay, analyse the topic in the light of CDRM.

C – C urrent (must be of relevant nature to the time when you write the essay)

D – D ebatable (must have at least two opposing arguments ongoing)

R – R esearchable (must have info that you can look up and present scope of further study)

M – M anageable (must be narrow enough to wrap up within the length and breadth of an essay)

Given below is a list of 30 discursive essay topics. Pick one that catches your fancy or take inspiration and creates a topic of your own.

Should GMOs be allowed as mainstream food for consumption?
Is veganism really great for the health and the environment?
Is the military invading our privacy with the use of drones?
Will AI take over the world in near future?
Should public places (bars, cafes, bus stops, libraries, etc.) use Internet filtering devices?
Are plastic straws and bottles really harming the environment?
Are dating websites reliable for meeting potential future partners?
Does every small business need to be on social media to make it big?
Are humans causing global warming?
Should tobacco and its by-products be banned entirely in public places?
Is the human race becoming increasingly tech-reliant?
Do we have a tax system that is fair and just to all citizens?
Is it necessary to impose a curfew when bringing up teenagers?
Should the government control our daily diets and rations to improve national health?
Do female sports stars deserve equal pay as their male counterparts?
Does playing war or shooting-based RP video games encourage violent behaviour in children?
Should formal sex education be made mandatory globally?
Beauty pageants empower or demean men and women?
Can switching all racing cars to bio-fuel be a wise move to bring down emission levels?
Should homosexual partnerships and resultant marriages be legalised throughout the world?
Should abortion be made illegal in all countries?
Does having a school uniform encourage kids to learn about inclusiveness and equality?
Are standardised tests fair to all students coming from different backgrounds and having varying cognitive capacities?
Should the death sentence be replaced with 25 years of prison sentence?
How useful are swimming and dancing as whole-body exercises?
Should governments ban all products that use animals for testing?
Does reducing work hours have a positive impact on work-life balance?
Do fame and money necessarily have to come at the price of mental stability or emotional peace?
Should the government be more empathetic towards the rights and needs of minorities?
Is free access to the Internet one of the greatest threats to education and learning?

Parting words

That’s all there is behind choosing a great topic for your discursive essay. Be careful about the parameters of your academic institution, and pick a topic that appeals to you. That way, you won’t be at your wits’ end when trying to research for the essay. As a result, the process of writing the essay will become much more enjoyable. That’s exactly what top academicians suggest as well. Go with a topic that genuinely interests you. Make sure the topic has all four elements of CDRM, and you will be good to go. Pick your stance and plan away. All the best with your discursive essay.

Are you struggling to complete an essay? Get AssignmentHelp.com.sg to the rescue and tackle essay stress like a pro

Whenever you are faced with difficult essay tasks that confound you, AssignmentHelp.com.sg can be your friend in need. With a team of scholarly writers, we can come to your aid and eliminate any academic issue that might be bothering you. Is it an essay that you need? Or do you require a customised dissertation ? Do case studies send shivers down your spine? Worry not, for the experts of AssignmentHelp.com.sg not only compose academic tasks from scratch, but can also wrap up half-finished assignments as well. What’s more, we can also edit and proofread all your assignments to perfection.

Students in the Merlion country have long hailed us as the finest academic writing services . Achieving 4.9 out of 5 in customer satisfaction ratings, we have helped students secure their dream grades with our unmatched writing and editing support. Fall back on our study guide for all queries and difficulties that might come up when you are completing your assignments. Check out the unique features of our academic writing services that will help you become the topper of your class in no time at all.

Covering 100+ academic modules
Entirely authentic assignment solutions
Promptest of deliveries – every time
Customized assignment solutions
100% confidentiality guarantee
Ease of access and order placement
Attractive prices and yearlong discounts
24*7customer support

Get in touch with our helpful customer support executives today to grab the most awesome deals on your assignment. Place an order at AssignmentHelp.com.sg and bid goodbye to assignment stress for good.

Do you want to share?

50+ Exemplary Topics To Kickstart Your Evaluation Essay Writing

A Complete Guide To Writing An Argumentative Essay With Example

Everything You Should Know About Writing A Cause And Effect Essay On “Bullying”

A Comprehensive Guide To Writing A Critical Thinking Essay

A Complete Blueprint For Writing An Impactful Essay On Depression

Valuable Practices To Swear By: How To Present A Self-Analysis Essay

100 Stellar Argumentative Essay Topics For School And University Students

Understanding The Fundamentals Of Narrative Essay Writing

How To Write A Synthesis Essay: Definition, Format & Example

Subscribe Newsletter

You can place your order for free now. Simply submit your order and see what our writers can Subscribe to get regular update!

Business Intelligence Assignment Help
Lab Report Writing Service
Nursing Assignment Help
Buy Response Essay
CPM Homework Answers
Do My Chemistry Homework
Buy Argumentative Essay
Do Your Homework
Biology Essay Writers
Business Development Assignment Help
Best Macroeconomics Assignment Help
Best Financial Accounting Assignment Help
PHP Assignment Help
Science Assignment Help
Audit Assignment Help
Perdisco Accounting Assignment Help
Humanities Assignment Help
Computer Network Assignment Help
Arts and Architecture Assignment Help
How it works

How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips, Examples, and Structure

Calculate the price of your order:.

Mastering the Art of Writing a Discursive Essay

Table of contents.

Introduction

Understanding Discursive Essays

Discursive essay writing tips, discursive essay structure, examples of discursive essays, picking the right discursive essay topics, discursive essay format, crafting a strong discursive essay outline, writing an effective discursive essay introduction, nailing the discursive essay conclusion.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to write a discursive essay effectively. If you’re unfamiliar with this type of essay or want to improve your skills, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will cover How to Write a Discursive Essay , examples, and strategies to help you craft a compelling discursive essay.

Are you ready to master this art of writing ? This article will explain a discursive essay and explore various aspects such as writing tips, structure, examples, and format. So, let’s dive right in and unveil the key elements of an impressive discursive essay.

Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of writing a discursive essay , let’s take a moment to understand its nature and purpose. A discursive essay presents a balanced argument on a particular topic by exploring different perspectives. It requires the writer to consider different viewpoints, present evidence, and critically analyze the subject matter.

Writing a discursive essay can be challenging, but you can excel in this art form with the right approach. Here are some valuable tips that will help you write a discursive essay effectively:

Choose an Engaging Topic: Select a topic that is interesting and relevant to your audience. This will make the essay more engaging and enjoyable to read.
Thorough Research: Gather extensive information from reliable sources to support your arguments and counterarguments.
Plan and Outline: Take the time to plan and create an outline before diving into the writing process. This will help you organize your thoughts and arguments effectively.
Clear Introduction: Start with a concise introduction that provides context and grabs the reader’s attention. Clearly state your thesis or main argument.
Well-structured Paragraphs: Divide your essay into paragraphs that focus on specific points. Each paragraph should present a new idea or support a previous one.
Logical Flow: Maintain a logical flow using transitional words and phrases that connect your ideas and paragraphs smoothly.
Balance Your Arguments: Ensure a balance in presenting the pros and cons of each perspective. This will demonstrate your fairness and critical thinking skills.
Support with Evidence: Provide evidence, facts, and examples to support your claims and make your arguments more persuasive.
Use Clear Language: Avoid jargon and overly complex language. Opt for clear, concise, and precise language that is easy for readers to comprehend.
Proofread and Edit: Always revise, proofread, and edit your essay to ensure clarity, coherence, and proper grammar usage.

Following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to write an impressive discursive essay that effectively presents your arguments and engages your readers.

A well-structured discursive essay enhances readability and ensures that your arguments are coherent. Here’s a suggested structure that you can follow:

Hook the reader with an attention-grabbing statement or anecdote.
Introduce the topic and provide background information.
Present your thesis statement or main argument.
Start each paragraph with a topic sentence introducing a new argument or perspective.
Provide evidence, examples, and supporting details to justify your claims.
Address counterarguments and present rebuttals, showing your ability to consider different viewpoints.
Use transitional words to maintain a smooth flow between paragraphs.
Summarize the main points discussed in the essay.
Restate your thesis statement while considering the arguments presented.
End with a thought-provoking statement or call to action.

By adhering to this structure, your discursive essay will be well-organized and easy for readers to follow.

To gain a better understanding of how discursive essays are written, let’s explore a couple of examples:

Example 1: The Impact of Social Media

Introduction: The growing influence of social media in society.

Main Body: Discussing the positive and negative aspects of social media on communication, mental health, privacy, and relationships.

Conclusion: Weighing the overall impact of social media and proposing ways to harness its strengths and mitigate its drawbacks.

Example 2: The Pros and Cons of School Uniforms

Introduction: Introducing the debate on school uniforms.

Main Body: Exploring the arguments supporting school uniforms (such as fostering discipline and equality) and arguments against them (such as limiting self-expression).

Conclusion: Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of school uniforms and suggesting potential compromises.

These examples illustrate how discursive essays analyze various perspectives on a topic while maintaining a balanced approach.

Choosing an engaging and relevant topic is crucial to capturing your readers’ attention. Here are some popular discursive essay topics to consider:

Is social media beneficial or detrimental to society?
Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide?
Are genetically modified organisms (GMOs) safe for consumption?
Should recreational marijuana use be legalized?
Are video games responsible for the rise in violence among youth?

When selecting a topic, ensure it is captivating, allows for multiple viewpoints, and is backed by sufficient research material.

While there is flexibility in formatting a discursive essay, adhering to a standard format enhances clarity and readability. Consider following this general format:

Font type and size: Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri with a 12-point font size.
Line spacing: Double-spaced throughout the essay.
Page margins: 1-inch margins on all sides.
Title page: Include the essay title, your name, course name, instructor’s name, and submission date (if applicable).
Header: Insert a header with your last name and page number (top-right corner).

A consistent format will make your essay more professional and easier to navigate.

Before writing your discursive essay, creating an outline that organizes your thoughts and arguments effectively is essential. Here’s a sample outline to help you get started:

I. Introduction

B. Background information

C. Thesis statement

II. Main Body

A. Argument 1

1. Supporting evidence

2. Examples

B. Argument 2

C. Argument 3

1 . Supporting evidence

2 . Examples

III. Counterarguments and Rebuttals

A. Counterargument 1

1 . Rebuttal evidence

B. Counterargument 2

C . Counterargument 3

IV. Conclusion

A. Summary of main points

B . Restating the thesis statement

C. Call to action or thought-provoking statement

By structuring your ideas in an outline, you’ll have a clear roadmap for your essay, ensuring that your arguments flow logically.

The introduction of your discursive essay plays a vital role in capturing your reader’s attention and setting the tone for the essay. Here’s how you can make your introduction compelling:

Start With an Engaging Hook: Begin with a captivating opening sentence, such as a surprising statistic, an intriguing question, or a compelling anecdote related to your topic.

Provide Necessary Background Information: Briefly explain the topic and its relevance to the reader.

Present Your Thesis Statement: Clearly state your main argument or thesis, which will guide your essay’s direction and focus.

You’ll establish a strong foundation for your discursive essay by crafting an engaging and informative introduction.

The conclusion of your discursive essay should effectively summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on your readers. Here’s how you can achieve this:

Summarize the Main Points: Briefly recap the key arguments and perspectives discussed in the essay.

Restate Your Thesis Statement: Reiterate your main argument while considering the various perspectives.

Call to Action or Thought-Provoking Statement: End your essay with a compelling statement or encourage readers to explore the topic further, sparking discussion and reflection.

By crafting a powerful conclusion, you’ll leave a lasting impact on your readers, ensuring they walk away with a clear understanding of your essay’s message.

Congratulations! You’ve now comprehensively understood how to write a discursive essay effectively. Remember to choose an engaging topic, conduct thorough research, create a clear structure, and present balanced arguments while considering different perspectives. Following these guidelines and incorporating our tips, you’ll be well-equipped to craft a compelling discursive essay.

So, start writing your discursive essay following our comprehensive guide. Unlock your writing potential and captivate your readers with an impressive discursive essay that showcases your analytical skills and ability to present compelling arguments. Happy writing!

Frequently Asked Questions About “How to Write a Discursive Essay Effectively”

What is a discursive essay, and how does it differ from other types of essays.

A discursive essay explores a particular topic by presenting different perspectives and arguments. It differs from other essays, emphasizing balanced, unbiased discussion rather than a single, strong stance.

How should I choose a topic for my discursive essay?

Select a topic that allows for multiple viewpoints and has room for discussion. Controversial issues or topics with various opinions work well, providing ample material for exploration.

What is the typical structure of a discursive essay?

A discursive essay typically has an introduction, several body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction sets the stage, the body paragraphs present different viewpoints, and the conclusion summarizes the key points and your stance.

Is it necessary to choose a side in a discursive essay?

While you don’t have to take a definite side, you should present a balanced view. However, some essay prompts may ask you to argue for or against a particular position.

How do I start the introduction of a discursive essay?

Begin with a hook to capture the reader’s attention, provide background information, and clearly state the issue you will discuss. End the introduction with a thesis statement that outlines your approach.

Should I use formal language in a discursive essay?

Yes, maintain a formal and objective tone. Avoid using first-person pronouns and aim for clarity and precision in your language.

How many viewpoints should I include in the body paragraphs?

Include at least two or three well-developed viewpoints. Ensure that each paragraph focuses on a specific aspect or argument related to the topic.

How do I transition between paragraphs in a discursive essay?

Use transitional phrases to move smoothly from one idea to the next. This helps maintain a logical flow and coherence in your essay.

Can I include personal opinions in a discursive essay?

While you can present your opinions, remaining objective and supporting your views with evidence is crucial. The emphasis should be on presenting a well-rounded discussion rather than expressing personal bias.

How do I conclude a discursive essay effectively?

Summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs, restate your thesis nuancedly, and offer a closing thought or call to action. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion.

Basic features

Free title page and bibliography
Unlimited revisions
Plagiarism-free guarantee
Money-back guarantee
24/7 support

On-demand options

Writer's samples
Part-by-part delivery
Overnight delivery
Copies of used sources
Expert Proofreading

Paper format

275 words per page
12 pt Arial/Times New Roman
Double line spacing
Any citation style (APA, MLA, CHicago/Turabian, Havard)

Guaranteed originality

We guarantee 0% plagiarism! Our orders are custom made from scratch. Our team is dedicated to providing you academic papers with zero traces of plagiarism.

Affordable prices

We know how hard it is to pay the bills while being in college, which is why our rates are extremely affordable and within your budget. You will not find any other company that provides the same quality of work for such affordable prices.

Best experts

Our writer are the crème de la crème of the essay writing industry. They are highly qualified in their field of expertise and have extensive experience when it comes to research papers, term essays or any other academic assignment that you may be given!

Calculate the price of your order

Expert paper writers are just a few clicks away

Place an order in 3 easy steps. Takes less than 5 mins.

Essay Topic Generator
Summary Generator
Thesis Maker Academic
Sentence Rephraser
Read My Paper
Hypothesis Generator
Cover Page Generator
Text Compactor
Essay Scrambler
Essay Plagiarism Checker
Hook Generator
AI Writing Checker
Notes Maker
Overnight Essay Writing
Topic Ideas
Writing Tips
Essay Writing (by Genre)
Essay Writing (by Topic)

Discursive Essay Writing – A Comprehensive Guide

Writing discursive essays is a common task that can be encountered in high school and college environments. Mastering the nuances of writing them will be a lot easier with this guide. Our team has prepared recommendations that cover the basics of discursive essays and their format. Additionally, you will find some helpful tips about improving your work. Let’s get started!

🧐 Definition & Purpose

✍️ Types of Discursive Writing

💡 Discursive Essay Topics

📝 Discursive Essay Format

💎 developing a discursive writing style, 📎 references, 🧐 discursive writing: definition & purpose.

Discursive essays are different from the argumentative and persuasive papers you might be used to. Discursive writing allows students to investigate various topics in depth and present different opinions on particular issues. Creating one involves gathering, reading, and assessing supportive evidence. As with other academic papers, discursive ones are built around a thesis statement that outlines the arguments.

A discursive essay aims to explore a topic by presenting diverse viewpoints.

Unlike other paper genres like persuasive essays , discursive essays are scarce on personal thoughts. They favor an unbiased look at the subject through the lens of facts and statistics. You can use them to discuss issues related to social norms, the economy, political movements, technology, and similar subjects. Whatever you write about, ensure you methodically cover every side of the issue.

Differences between Argumentative and Discursive Essays

Students often confuse these essay types, so we’ve decided to help you understand the difference. These descriptions will show you how to identify the purpose and tone of these papers and choose the appropriate one to match your writing goals.

🤔 Argumentative	🧐 Discursive
present supporting evidence and disprove opposing claims.	serve as an analysis of the subject from different points of view.

If your professor tasks you with this kind of assignment, you have a couple of ways to approach it. As we’ve mentioned before, there are several types of discursive essays. This segment of our article goes into some detail about each of them.

For-and-against essay . These papers can be best described as a debate in written form. They provide opposing points of view on different topics. For example, such essays may be about the use of fossil fuels, the First Amendment, or the merits of capitalism. It’s vital to provide reasonable and objective arguments in both cases. Readers can come to their own conclusions after reading these discursive papers.
Opinion essay . In these papers, you should present your opinion about particular issues. Use reason and evidence to back your arguments . Don’t forget to discuss the opposing opinion and explain why it lacks strength. These essays can discuss social, political, and economic topics.
Problem-solution essay . This discursive essay type discusses a problem and suggests the best solutions for solving it, for example, helping combat the homelessness crisis, climate change, or other issues. Here, students establish the problem, its causes, and the consequences of not addressing them.

💡 Examples of Discursive Essay Topics

If you get to write a discursive essay on any subject you wish, this is the right segment for you. Here, we provide several pressing, engaging, and diverse topics for your work.

Does social media affect people’s communication skills?
Do people rely on technology too much?
The environment is the prime factor in forming a person’s identity.
Examine the history of vaccines and their effectiveness.
What’s the best way to save the environment?
Does technology make us lazier?
Higher education is not for everybody.
Should capital punishment be abolished?
Therapy is the best way to deal with mental health issues.
People should travel without borders.
How much does culture influence a person’s upbringing?
Is American education in dire need of change?
Discuss how music provides stress relief.
German is one of the most complex languages to learn.
How to combat the drug crisis in America.
Which book format is the best?
Are TV shows oversaturated with violence?
Discuss the link between poverty and crime.
In modern media, censorship comes before facts.
Approaches to addressing Higher English course challenges.
Should special sports events be held for steroid users?
Does alcohol harm the social fabric?
Modern movies lack the creative touch.
Is it OK to control the freedom of speech?
Discuss if the government should regulate marital relationships.
Have apps destroyed the dating market?
The beauty industry wrecked the self-image of women.
Does listening to heavy metal make a person more aggressive?
The paradox of fast fashion: balancing trends and sustainability .
Is religion underappreciated?

You may be tempted to write right away after choosing the appropriate topic for your discursive essay. However, before you do this, get acquainted with this paper’s format. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide for each section of the work.

How to Write a Discursive Essay Introduction

Crafting a compelling intro is the foundation of a successful discursive essay. This section outlines the essential elements and strategies to grab the audience’s attention. Read it to master the art of engaging intros.

Conduct thorough research . Before writing the introductory part, look for reliable sources of information to draw from. Take the time to find supporting evidence, especially when working on an unknown topic.
Start with a hook sentence . You can provide stats, pose a good question, or give a quote related to the topic. Since it’s the first impression you make, ensure it’s a memorable one.
Follow with a compressed topic description in a couple of sentences . Your job is to show how the topic is relevant to the broader discourse. Pick your words carefully to leave a lasting impact.
Introduce your thesis statement . In a sentence or two, describe the paper’s main idea and how you will disclose it later. Trim it down and edit until the statement perfectly encapsulates the core of your writing.
Describe what the essay will be about . In a couple of sentences, explain what each part of the work will cover in its paragraphs.
Finish with a transitional phrase or sentence. The last part of the introduction should also smoothly transition into the paper’s body paragraphs. It makes the writing more cohesive and forms a flowing narrative.

The four best tips for discursive essay writing.

How to Write Discursive Essay Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs offer a platform for in-depth analysis and presentation of multiple perspectives. The ones in discursive essays have distinctive characteristics that distinguish them from other papers.

Fill each paragraph with evidence that supports your claims . Add facts, statistics, examples, and quotes. Analyze this content and show how it supports your statements.
Aim to present a balanced discussion . Give each point of view fair consideration. Even if you have a strong personal opinion, it should not dominate the main arguments.
Present an opposing point of view . Don’t forget to dedicate several sections for counter-arguments to make the paper more comprehensive. Provide supporting information to these claims and refute them later on.
Use transitional phrases between perspectives . Smooth transitions between different viewpoints within the body paragraphs will help you maintain coherence and guide the reader through the diverse arguments.
Work in a structure . The first paragraph produces an argument, while the second has an opposing one. Repeat this process throughout the essay to give your audience a bigger picture of the issue. Also, don’t forget to check your punctuation .

How to Write a Discursive Essay Conclusion

This section will show you how to restate your main points, complete your arguments, and leave a lasting impression .

Return to the thesis statement . Don’t simply restate it. Instead, show how the paper helped expand upon it. Explain the importance of your work in the broader discussion.
Remind about the critical points of the paper . Give a rundown of the main takeaways of your paper and why they matter. Stay brief and remember that the conclusion should be about one paragraph long.
Demonstrate its importance . Tell the readers about the questions your paper raises and how they help understand the issue better. Offer practical suggestions for addressing the problem while relying on the provided data.
Encourage future discussions . Your paper should make readers want to explore the topic on their own, and it should encourage further debates. Suggest other areas relating to your topic that could be investigated in the future.

You’re one step closer to writing your perfect essay. We recommend practicing to ensure that you triumph over these academic tasks. Follow our tips, and you will see the quality of your papers reach new heights.

✅ Be straightforward	Try using simple words and phrases whenever possible. This way, you’ll be less likely to make mistakes. It also helps people unfamiliar with the topic to understand it better.
✅ Cut down on long sentences	When writing papers, stick to shorter sentence structures. If you see lengthy ones, cut them down into two or more. There’s no need to chop up every single one – do this when necessary. Practice and you’ll see better which sentences to separate or keep as they are.
✅ Clear the clutter	Everybody sometimes writes words, phrases, or sentences that don’t add more information to the paper. Or they make the same remarks several times in the text. If the meaning doesn’t change with their removal, it’s best to exclude them.
✅ Experiment with sentence structure	Sticking to the same sentence structure throughout the text makes it dull and uninteresting. If you want to impact readers, change things from time to time.
✅ Rely on an active voice	Try writing in an , as it’s more direct and requires fewer words than its passive counterpart. This makes papers easier to follow and comprehend. You’ll also avoid wordiness.
✅ Write in a formal tone	As essays are academic tasks, you should write in a formal tone. Avoid colloquialisms, slang, and other devices not associated with this style. Remember to write in the third person.
✅ Stick to familiar vocabulary	When , you will come across new words and phrases. Never use them if you don’t fully comprehend their meaning. Instead, stick to the terms and phrases you’re sure of.

We thank you for your attention. Hopefully, you’ve found the guide helpful. If you need any more ideas for your discursive essay, you can create one using our topic generator !

How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay: Easy Step-by-Step Guide. – MasterClass
Discursive/Expository Essays. – Universidad de Murcia
Discursive Writing. – Fei-Yu Chuang, The University of Warwick
Reflective Writing: Differences Between Discursive and Reflective Writing. – University of Hull
Writing Styles: When and How You Should Use the 4 Main Types. – Jamie Birt, Indeed
Discursive Writing. – BBC
8 Easy Ways to Improve Your Writing Style. – Oxford Royale Academy

How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips to Succeed & Examples

So, you need to accomplish your discursive essay writing. The typical questions most students ask are: How do you write it? What is discursive essay?

A discursive essay is an academic paper that involves a discussion on a particular topic. It is usually assigned to college students. You may be required to write a paper wherein you have to do one of the following:

argue for the issue or against it;
present your points of view on both sides;
provide your unprejudiced opinion on that matter.

Don’t panic!

Check out the tips from  Custom-writing.org  experts below. They will assist you in discursive writing and encourage you to examine essay examples. Moreover, in this article, you’ll also learn about different types of discursive essay, and its introduction, main body, and conclusion structure.

❓ What Is It?
🏁 Main Types

Introduction

Basic Don’Ts
✏️ Frequent Questions

❓ What Is a Discursive Essay?

First of all, let’s figure out what the discursive essay is.

You may think it’s similar to the argumentative essay. Yes, but there’s a difference between them in the structure and purpose of these two types of assignments:


Purpose	To provide a reliable and unbiased assessment of an issue. Nevertheless, your discursive writing does not have to be completely neutral. You should write it using the facts and research reports to present both sides of the issue.	To persuade the reader in your position, providing supporting evidence. This essay type relies on thorough research so that the author can both convince and educate the reader. However, the result should be less passionate and more concise than that of a .
Structure	Its style is more impersonal and formal in comparison with other assignment types:	Its style is general for essays as the reader should understand what you stand for

We will take a detailed look at how to structure a discursive essay later, and now let’s find out what are the types of this assignment.

Keep reading!

🏁 Discursive Essay: Main Types

You have to think more critically and more in-depth when reviewing all viewpoints and aspects of discursive writing. Check these three main types of essay writing:

Opinion Essay  requires the author’s opinion on an issue which is stated in the introductory paragraph. It should be clearly presented and followed by reasons and supporting examples. Also, this essay paper should contain an opposing argument that comes before the conclusion. The writer must explain to readers why the mentioned argument is considered to be unconvincing. The writer’s opinion should be restated/summarized in the conclusion.
For and Against Essay  provides readers with a thorough debate on the topic with the help of opposing points of view. Each point should be discussed objectively and described in details. The introductory paragraph puts the issue under consideration. The main body of this essay paper should present examples, reasons, and arguments supported by justifications. The author’s own opinion with balanced reflections on the topic should be stated only in conclusion.
Essay Suggesting Solution to a Problem  discusses problems and finds the main solutions. The introduction paragraph explicitly declares a problem and analyses its causes and consequences. The main body of the essay should offer some suggestions for a possible solution to the problem and potential state consequences or expected results. In conclusion, author’s opinion should be distinctly summarized.

📑 How to Write a Discursive Essay

Well, it’s time to talk about the structure of a discursive essay. Like most of the assignments, a discursive paper starts with an introduction and ends with a conclusion:

The first question you may ask is how to start a discursive essay introduction. Simple!

Give your readers a hook – something that would sound interesting to them.
Provide a short explanation of the problem. You may use quotations, as well as rhetorical questions.
Show your readers both sides of the arguments and sum up.

You may be wondering…

Is there something I should avoid in my discursive essay introduction?

Yes. No stereotypes and generalizations, please!

The next step under formal essay writing you should take is to compose the body.

Tips on how to write a discursive essay.

There are a few points you should remember:

First and foremost: stay unprejudiced . Assess all of the aspects of an issue. Leave your feelings behind or for another essay type.
Second: build your argumentation . If you have several arguments for your viewpoint—provide them in separate paragraphs. This will help you to keep your essay comprehensible and distinct. Don’t forget to submit supporting evidence.
Third: write the body of an essay in an alternate manner. What does it mean? If your first paragraph supports the paper’s argument, then in the second paragraph you should write something in the opposite of it. Such a combination of supporting and opposite paragraphs will make your essay look apparent, and well researched. Besides, it will help you to remain neutral.
Fourth: include topic sentences and evidence . Write a summary of the argument at the beginning of the paragraph. It will allow the reader to easier understand what the paragraph is about. Provide evidence to show that you’re not making the facts up.

Well, you’ve almost finished your writing. Now you should focus on the last section. Keep reading, and you will learn how to write a conclusion for a discursive essay.

In the last section, you should summarize your article including the main points, specified in the body paragraphs.
You may also logically express your opinion. Remember: it should resonate with your evidence stated in the body paragraphs.
Don’t repeat findings, just summarize them.

Keep it short. Your conclusion length should not exceed one paragraph.

👍 Do’s and Don’ts

Do you want more discursive essay writing tips? Fine! Just check them below:

Basic Do’s of a Discursive Essay

Write in formal, impersonal style.
Introduce each point in a separate paragraph
Use topic sentences for each paragraph
Write well-developed paragraphs
Give reasons and examples for each point
Use sequencing
Use linking words and phrases
Make references to other sources and make sure that you follow proper citation style
Identify used sources

Basic Don’Ts of a Discursive Essay

Don’t use short forms, like I’ll, don’t, they’ve
Don’t use informal/colloquial language, for example: old as the hills, ain’t, gonna, etc.
Don’t use very emotional language, since it might make your discursive article look prejudiced
Don’t use over-generalizations. Extending the features of some elements from a group more than it is reasonable will lead to generous and inaccurate conclusions.
Don’t express your personal opinion too insistently
Don’t refer to statistics without proper referencing (check our citation guides )
Don’t use personal examples, leave it for a personal experience essay

Well, now you know what discursive essay means, what are its main types, and how to structure it.

Discursive Essay Topics

Discussion of risk factors that impact human health.
Discuss the necessity of understanding cultural heritage to provide efficient health care.
Analyze different opinions on withdrawing patients’ treatment.
Examine different views on the Civil War.
Discuss what hostile emotional states are and how they impact human life.
Discuss the meaning of metaphors used by Virgil in Aeneid .
Describe different opinions on telehealth in nursing homes.
The ethicality of stem cell technology.
Explore the effectiveness of motivational interviewing.
Discuss how people present themselves online .
Discuss the reasons for Coca-Cola’s marketing success.
Analyze the food safety issues and the ways to improve the situation.
Examine the essential meaning of sleep for people’s physical and mental health.
Explore various complications of working with groups.
Discussion of the modern issues with virtue ethics.
Describe different views on the definition of love.
Give the for and against arguments considering food security technologies.
Discuss how the concept of the American dream is presented in the film The Great Gatsby.
Analyze the influence of family problems on children and suggest ways to improve the situation.
Present the various points of view on the ethical concepts of Buddhism.
Examine the attitudes towards the problem of homelessness and the suggested ways of its solution.
Explore different opinions on the American revolution and its consequences.
Discuss various policies and views around the globe on abortion.
Discussion of the history of food foraging in different communities.
Multiple thoughts on civility on the Internet .
Analyze arguments on the effectiveness of hand sanitizers.
Discuss the importance of visual aids in learning.
Present and evaluate the theories of international development .
Discuss how to prevent the spread of the West Nile Virus (WNV).
Is embracing renewable energy sources beneficial for both environment and the global economy?
Examine the correctness of the statement that the ideology of pleasure is the foundation of social activism.
Discussion of the ethical dilemma of population control.
Discuss the ethics of experimental studies .
Analyze the topic of gun violence and gun control laws.
Explore the reasons for opioid crises in the US.
Give arguments for and against random drug testing.
Discuss the problem of endangered species .
Express your opinion on the necessity of parents to be included in children’s education .
Present your attitude towards working in a bureaucratic organization.
Discuss the issue of the nursing shortage and suggest a solution.
Give different viewpoints on the definition of beauty .
Analyze the problem of police misconduct.
Discuss the description of violence of African people in literature.
Examine the views on Gardner’s multiple intelligence theory.
Describe the various opinions on mysticism and express your attitude towards it.
Discuss the diverse standpoints on spirituality.
Is nature protection an urgent problem?
Analyze different ideas on physical privacy at work.
Discussion on the Jewish heritage in nursing.
Examine the views on the meaning of life.

Good luck with your discussions and discursive essays! Be sure to check out the articles on our blog for more academic wisdom. By the way, on the Custom-Writing website, you may find the best essay topics for your academic writing.

And don’t forget to share your opinion in the comments below.

✏️ Discursive Essay FAQ

There is no one definitely correct answer to this question. Like any other essay, the text should have a clear structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion. The most important thing is that the overall book needs to be cohesive, persuasive, and exciting to read.

An example of a step by step guide is:

1. Take a closer look at the topic, think about the points to cover.

2. Choose the most relevant points and compose the Body of the essay.

3. Add an appropriate Introduction and Conclusion.

To write a good conclusion, you need to have the rest of the essay finished. Does the body of your essay present well-structured points? Great, then see what you can conclude based on that. If possible, make a connection between the introduction and the conclusion.

To ensure that your essay has a perfect structure, start with creating an outline. Based on such a plan, you can present your points step by step. Your text should have a relevant introduction, several points in the main body (with examples), and a logical conclusion.

🔗 References

Writing an Opinion Essay: Grace Fleming, ThoughtCo
How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay: Easy Step-by-Step Guide: Master Class
Ending the Essay: Conclusions: Harvard College Writing Center
Academic Writing Style: University of Southern California
Cite Your Sources: Library Guides at University of California, Santa Cruz
Share to Facebook
Share to Twitter
Share to LinkedIn
Share to email

How to Write a Good Narrative Essay: Tips, Examples, & Step-by-Step Guide

How to write a narrative essay? To do that, you need to know what a narrative essay is. It is an academic text usually written as a story and containing all the usual elements of a story. Narrative essays are often personal, experiential, and creative. Still, they should be made...

College Essay Writing 101—the Comprehensive Guide [2024]

So, you can’t wait to get into college and join a fraternity, sorority, or student union. Well, we have some incredibly useful tips and helpful information for college admission essay writing! Remember: getting into college takes more than money. And outstanding essays get you great college scholarships!

Americanism Essay: Examples, Tips & Topics [2024 Update]

It’s not hard to see why Americanism is one of the most popular essay topics. The concept of Americanism is in the center of the US identity. Writing an essay about it is an excellent way to find out more about this great country.

How to Write an Art Critique: Examples & Strategies

An art critique paper involves a comprehensive analysis and assessment of an artwork. Though this looks a bit complicated, the task doesn’t require a lot of time if you have sufficient critique writing skills. It’s an interesting assignment for students of art colleges as well as high schoolers. All you...

How to Write an Article Review: Template & Examples

An article review is an academic assignment that invites you to study a piece of academic research closely. Then, you should present its summary and critically evaluate it using the knowledge you’ve gained in class and during your independent study. If you get such a task at college or university,...

How to Write a Short Essay: Format & Examples

Short essays answer a specific question on the subject. They usually are anywhere between 250 words and 750 words long. A paper with less than 250 words isn’t considered a finished text, so it doesn’t fall under the category of a short essay. Essays of such format are required for...

Spiritual Leadership Topics, Summary Essay, & Guide

When you hear the phrase “spiritual leadership,” you probably think it’s only associated with religion. But did you know that this form of leadership can also be found in business? The book Spiritual Leadership: Moving People on to God’s Agenda by Henry and Richard Blackaby is a good starting point...

Compare and Contrast Essay Outline: Template and Example

High school and college students often face challenges when crafting a compare-and-contrast essay. A well-written paper of this kind needs to be structured appropriately to earn you good grades. Knowing how to organize your ideas allows you to present your ideas in a coherent and logical manner This article by...

If a Tree Falls in the Forest: Answer, Essay Sample & Guide

“If a tree falls in the forest, does it make a sound?” is one of the most debatable philosophical questions regarding observation and perception. Many tried to answer it, including the English philosopher John Locke. Do you need to explore Locke’s perspective on this question in your essay? You are on the right...

Abortion Research Paper: Example, Outline, & Topics

The long-standing debate surrounding abortion has many opponents and advocates. Groups known as Pro-Choice and Pro-Life argue which approach is better, with no easy solution in sight. This ethical complexity is what makes abortion a popular topic for argumentative writing. As a student, you need to tackle it appropriately. If...

How to Restate a Thesis Statement: Examples & Tips

What is the most important part of any essay or research paper? Of course, it’s the thesis statement—a sentence that expresses the paper’s main idea and guides the readers through your arguments. But where do you place the thesis? You’ve probably answered, “in the introduction.” However, that’s not all of...

How to Write a Formal Essay: Format, Rules, & Example

If you’re a student, you’ve heard about a formal essay: a factual, research-based paper written in 3rd person. Most students have to produce dozens of them during their educational career.  Writing a formal essay may not be the easiest task. But fear not: our custom-writing team is here to guide...

It’s very helpful!

it’s a good site to learn from. However, it will be perfect if there is a small essay to clear the mess understanding from the advice

This was so helpful , thank you God bless you

Very good site,thank so much for your effort in writing the posts.

thank you my n word 👨🏿‍🦳

thank you so much!!!! is there any way to access an annotated example to help?

Thank you so much. That really helped me with writing my essay.

thanku so much for increasing my knowledge

Thank you. It was really helpful. It has answered all my questions.

How To Write Discursive Essays

Essay Writing Lower Secondary

1. What is a Discursive Essay?

A discursive essay is an essay which involves a discussion. You’re encouraged to examine different perspectives on the issue so that the discussion you provide is a balanced one! You are on the right track if your essay sheds light on the issue by looking at it from different viewpoints.

But before you go on reading… You might want to download a pdf copy of this article as it is quite long!

Click the blue download button, enter your email, and the pdf file will be delivered to your inbox! (Remember to check spam!)

Click here to Download

2. How do I Identify a Discursive Essay Topic?

Let’s take a look at some of the discursive essay topics from past year papers:

2021 O-Level: “Young people are changing the world for the better.” What is your opinion?

2019 O-Level: “Most young people today are obsessed with fame and imitating celebrities.” What are your views?

In recent years, “What is your opinion?” and “What are your views?” are common signposts used to indicate a discursive essay topic. However, there are also instances where such questions are not used. Consider:

2012 O-Level: People all over the world are living longer. What are the advantages and disadvantages of their increased life expectancy?
2010 O-Level: What important lessons in life are learned away from school?

So note that the question can still indicate discursive writing even when it does not contain “What is your opinion?” or “What are your views?”

3. What is the Difference Between a Discursive Essay, an Argumentative Essay and an Expository Essay?

Now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s look at the differences in requirements for a discursive and an argumentative essay.

Argumentative: you are required to take an explicit stand on the issue. Your essay is structured in a manner that argues towards this stand. When writing an argumentative essay, your goal is to persuade, to convince the reader to be in support of your stand.

Discursive: you are not required to take an explicit stand on the issue. In other words, you do not need to pick a side. You may choose to pick a side; that’s perfectly fine! Just note that the goal here is not to persuade or to convince; it is to provide the reader with a balanced discussion by examining the issue from various viewpoints.

Now that you’ve learnt how to identify a discursive question and gotten a better idea of what it requires, let’s look at how to plan a discursive essay.

4. How do I Approach or Structure a Discursive Essay?

Some essays require a binary approach , meaning to say you tackle the issue by addressing the positive and the negative aspects of the question at hand.

Here is how you can plan your body paragraphs for such topics:


2019 O-Level: Most young people today are obsessed with fame and imitating celebrities. What are your views?	Body 1: 1 point on why and how they obsessed with fame and imitating celebrities. Body 2: 2 point on why and how they obsessed with fame and imitating celebrities. Body 3: 1 point on why and how they obsessed with fame and imitating celebrities. Body 4: 2 point on why and how they obsessed with fame and imitating celebrities.
2012 O-Level: People all over the world are living longer. What are the advantages and disadvantages of their increased life expectancy?	Body 1: 1 of increased life expectancy Body 2: 2 of increased life expectancy Body 3: 1 of increased life expectancy Body 4: 2 of increased life expectancy

Now, it’s your turn! Try planning an outline for the following topics:

2017 O-Level: It is often said that people
are too concerned with getting things and spending money. What is your opinion?

On the other hand, there are topics which are not suited for such a binary approach. Consider questions such as:

Give 3 x features (1 per body paragraph)
Give 3 x important lessons (1 per body paragraph)

5. How do I Brainstorm Ideas for a Discursive Essay to Achieve a Balanced Discussion?

Give yourself 10 minutes to do a proper planning. It’s useful to approach the issue at hand by exploring its significance and relevance in different spheres and domains : Education, Ethics or Morals, Technology, Law etc.

Instead of giving 3 different points from an education perspective, why not broaden your scope and look at the issue from not just an educational perspective, but also a technological perspective and an ethical perspective?

This is what makes for a matured, holistic response.

Let’s use the following topic as an example:

Young people changing the world for the better	Young people changing the world for the better
Education] youth advocates are helping to make education available to girls in less developed countries	[Politics] many youths are politically apathetic
[Environment] youths are advocating for leaders to change environmental policies	Environment] youths are the primary consumers of fast fashion, which depletes valuable natural resources.
[Technology] young people are driving social media advancements	[Technology] the younger generation is abusing technology.

If you run out of ideas, you can also examine two sides of a coin in a single domain. For example, you’ll see that in the example, that for the technological sphere, there are instances of youths making and not changing the world for the better.

Now that the brainstorming is done, let’s put pen to paper and start writing!

6. How do I Write an Introduction for a Discursive Essay?

Share an insight or observation regarding the issue. Why is this issue worth discussing? What are the implications of the issue? You can also use 5W1H questions to help you generate ideas.
Define your scope of discussion and if needed, define the keywords in the topic by setting out what is meant by, for instance, “young people” and “for the better”.

You can ask yourself these questions to help you with your intro:

Who are “young people”?
In which domains are youths making significant impact?
Why do some people believe that they are making the world a better place?
Why do other people not trust youth to positively impact the world?
What is my thesis?

Simply answer these questions + include your thesis. Voila, you have a solid introduction!

Young people are often described as the changemakers of society, the future leaders, and the hope of our world. From advocating for the environment to spearheading social justice causes, the young people of today undoubtedly have the potential to change our world for the better. Having said that, one must question if this potential is somewhat overshadowed by charges of laziness, selfishness, irresponsibility et. cetera that are often levelled, sometimes legitimately I might add, against the younger generation. In this essay, I assess if the actions of today’s youths truly, on balance, lead us to a brighter future by exploring the impact they are making in the domains of education, environment, and technology.

7. How do I Write the Body Paragraphs for a Discursive Essay?

Students, you must have heard of the PEEL method by now. We introduce the POINT in the first sentence, ELABORATE on the point, then substantiate with EVIDENCE or EXAMPLES , and finally, we round it all off by LINKING back to the point.

It sounds easy enough, doesn’t it?

Each body paragraph should only discuss one main idea , and only one! Introduce the main idea in your topic sentence (the first sentence of your body paragraph), not after you’ve given your example or when you’re wrapping up the paragraph.

A good topic sentence is straightforward and clear .

Here is an example of a coherent and concise topic sentence:

In the sphere of education, youth activists are making positive changes by advocating to make education available to girls in less developed societies.

After you have crafted your topic sentence, it’s time to elaborate on your main point. A well-developed body paragraph elaborates by delving deeper into the main point and substantiating with relevant examples or evidence.

For our point on “education”, consider asking and answering the following questions:

Education imparts knowledge and skills to girls, which then grants more employment opportunities. In turn, they break free from the poverty cycle.
Don’t stop here! Make sure to link back to the idea of “making the world a better place”.
This means lower poverty rates in the world and society also benefits from the contributions that the girls go on to make in the workforce.

Important Reminders:

a. Your essay must not be example-driven ! It must always be point-driven.

b. Remember to make the link from your examples/ evidence back to your topic sentence. This illustrates the relevance and strength of your evidence and reinforces your main point.

For our example, a coherent body paragraph could look like this:

[ ] In the sphere of education, youth activists are making positive changes by advocating to make education available to girls in less developed societies. [ ] It is because of their efforts that young women formerly deprived of education, due to reasons like patriarchal mindsets, are now able to access learning. [ ] A notable example is the Pakistani activist, Malala Yousafzai, who began her activism by bravely speaking out against the Taliban’s ban on education for girls. Her story did much to raise awareness about the existing barriers to education. She also co-founded the Malala Fund, which advocates for policy changes to prioritize girls’ education globally. Partnering with UNESCO, Malala’s fund has helped over 5,000 girls in countries like Egypt and Tanzania gain access to education. [ ] By giving these girls an education and helping them out of the poverty cycle, activists like Malala are helping to raise global literacy rates and reduce problems associated with poverty. Society gets a chance to benefit from what these young women can contribute to the workforce. [ ] It is clear the tireless efforts of these activists have made significant impact in the education domain.

8. How to Write a Conclusion for a Discursive Essay?

Many students just reiterate the points in conclusion. But that is… you guessed it, boring. Last impression lasts! You want to provide an insight to this issue to demonstrate your maturity of thought. Apart from summarising your points, link your conclusion back to the introduction so that your essay comes a full circle. You can also use a quote or thought-provoking question for readers to make their own conclusion.

Check out this conclusion:I conclude by pointing out that it is unfair to generalise all young people; in every generation, there will be individuals who give that generation a bad name and those who, as this question suggests, make the world a better place. As shown in this essay, many youths in this generation are attempting to make an impact in different segments of society. But whether the efforts of these young trailblazers are, on balance, bettering the world is still a matter of debate. Furthermore, whether these efforts ultimately result in lasting positive changes depends not just on young people, but also on global leaders and international organisations. So perhaps the real question we should be asking is this: how can we, and not just the young people, work together to change this world for the better?

Students, this is how you tackle a discursive essay. Try applying these tips to one of the topics above!

Visit other related articles on Writing Samurai:

How To Write Argumentative Essays
7 Exam-Smart Tips For Language Editing
9 Tips for English Summary Writing
Practice Past Years O-Level English Essay Questions
Exam Smart Tips for Secondary English Paper 1 and Paper 2

You might want to download a pdf copy of this article for future reference!

Click here to Download

Follow Writing Samurai on Telegram for the latest tips and strategies for English, Chinese, and Creative Writing! Pssst... We will also share the latest compo topics during test or exam season!

Click this link to follow our channel >>> https://t.me/writingsamurai

A Guide On How To Prepare for PSLE

Free picture compositions for primary 3, 4, 5, and 6..

Cancel reply

Your comment ...

Subscribe for latest news & English tips:

2024 Copyright Writing Samurai

PRIMARY ENGLISH

Model Compositions
Situational Writing Tips
PSLE English Oral Exam Tips
PSLE Chinese Oral Exam Tips
50 Meaningful Proverbs
Composition Writing
PSLE Marking Scheme

SECONDARY ENGLISH

Past Year's O-Level Essays
Discursive Essay Writing
Argumentative Essay Writing
Secondary English Writing Tips (O-Levels)
Exam Tips for Secondary English
7 Exam Tips for Language Editing (O-Levels)

TOP FREE RESOURCES

Free English Writing Resources List
Free Model Compositions Examples
Video - Proverbs Composition Writing
Video - How to Write A Powerful Introduction
Video - How to Use Good Expressions in your Compositions
Free Online Writing Course - Kick Start Your Writing

TOP COURSES

Junior Writers Masterclass - P1 / P2
Little Writers Masterclass - P3 / P4
Creative Writing Masterclass - P5 / P6
Chinese Composition Writing - P5 / P6
Essay Writing Masterclass - S1 / S2
Essay Writing - Expository & Argumentative Crash Course
Grammar Editing Crash Course for Secondary School
Model Composition Examples
Free Model Compositions

Our Process

Discursive Essay Topics & Ideas 2022

Published by Alvin Nicolas at November 16th, 2022 , Revised On November 3, 2023

A discursive essay is a form of an academic essay in which you express your beliefs or points of view in favour of or against the issue. Even at times, this essay would allow you to impartially offer your points of view on all sides of a debate.

A discursive essay’s ultimate goal is to give readers many perspectives on a specific essay help topic or issue. As a result, when writing a discursive essay, you must think deeply from numerous viewpoints and evaluate all parts of the issue. Additionally, it is also important to come up with unique and appealing discursive essay topics .

A discursive essay, in a nutshell, explores arguments in a balanced manner, taking into account all of the elements for and against the issue.

Important links: Research Essay Topics , Cause and Effect Essay Topics , Argumentative Business Essay Topics , Expository Essay Topics , 84 Nursing Essay Topics

Topic Selection!

The first step in the discursive essay writing process you cannot omit is topic selection. In general, if your instructor gives a list of discursive essay topics from which to pick, you won’t have trouble coming up with a topic. However, the true test begins when you are given the option of selecting a topic of your choice.

There are countless themes accessible for writing a discursive essay on diverse issues. You can seek and identify any suitable topic from among them based on your interests. So, to assist you in identifying the best essay subject, we have included some crucial pointers to consider during the discursive essay topic choosing process:

Choose a topic on which you have strong feelings or knowledge.
Choose a topic that is both intriguing to you and your audience.
Pick a contentious issue on which you may provide opposing ideas or opinions.
Select a difficult issue with two sides to extract more arguments for and against it.
Choose a topic with many credible facts or proof to support your claims.

Only finalize the essay topic if it complies with your instructor’s essay writing criteria if any exist.

Discursive Essay Topics

Social networking sites are to blame for the creeping loss of the reading habit among schoolchildren. Explain.
Should parents reward their children for good behaviour?
Describe the finest type of parenting in your nation.
Should tobacco manufacture be made illegal globally?
Is our greater reliance on technology making us stupider?
Is rock music associated with Satanism?
A child raised by a single parent matures quicker than a youngster raised by both parents.
Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using mobile phones.
Is blockchain improving trade finance in 2018?
Can virtual reality end up being hazardous to children?
Explain some of our concerns regarding first impressions and their influence on encounters.
Explain why energy drinks are as dangerous as alcoholic beverages.
Explain ways to prevent online students from cheating.
Discuss why children should not have easy access to virtual reality.
Discuss if peacekeeping operations bring peace to countries or if they are simply a pretext for countries to attack one another and cause more violence than before.
Explain the remedies that should be made available to hyperactive children.
Using an entertainment industry case study, discuss how bad PR may help someone become more successful.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of globalization?
Should steroid users be barred from participating in sports?
Are political leaders engaging in illicit activities?
Examine the relationship between diet, fitness, and weight.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of video gaming among teenagers?
Should schools refrain from using physical torture to punish students?
Why are legislators now emphasizing STEM education?
Should the government outlaw same-gender marriage?
Should there be limitations on free speech?
What are the workplace issues that women face?
Will robots improve our efficiency in the future?
Should the death penalty be prohibited in all countries?
Should judicial hearings in the United Kingdom be televised?
Is it true that plastic water bottles harm the environment?
Are athletes good role models for kids?
Is a presence on social media required for a small business to succeed?
Should Muslims in Muslim nations cultivate religious tolerance?
Should public schools be responsible for teaching pupils social and emotional skills?
Is the Internet of Things no longer a technology that compromises privacy and security?
Is Shakespeare still relevant in today’s world?
Is workplace diversity beneficial to productivity?
Are modern people all across the world overly reliant on technology?
Should your country’s average driving age be decreased or increased?
Should mobile phones be permitted in the classroom?
What should the penalty be for trolling or cyberbullying on the internet?
Which is superior, traditional or alternative medicine?
Is texting and messaging applications such as WhatsApp destroying the English language?
Should workplace afternoon naps be permitted?
When should a youngster begin doing domestic chores?
Should cheering be considered a sport and competed in the Olympics?
Discuss the good and bad implications of blockchain technology on energy.
Why should we make it illegal to destroy rainforests?
Do energy drinks endanger the health of teenagers?
Should text messaging abbreviations be included in dictionaries?
Is the game industry responsible for negative gender and racial stereotypes?
Do all people require eight hours of sleep every night?
Is cheerleading a method of objectifying young women?
Do video games teach us anything?
Is it feasible to build a matriarchal society?
Should religion be taught in schools as part of the curriculum?
Should beauty pageants be outlawed?
Do politicians rely on the media to stay in power?
Is social media more important than conventional media these days?

Has a difficult essay got you down? No problem!

With EssaysUK you get:

Expert UK Writers
Plagiarism-free Content
Timely Delivery
Thorough Research
Rigorous Quality Control

Select a topic that interests you from the list mentioned above of unique discursive essay topics and produce an outstanding discursive essay. Have you chosen the best discursive essay topic for your assignment? Do you require immediate assistance with creating a discursive essay? Please contact us right away!

Our team’s expert essay writers will aid you in generating a plagiarism-free academic essay according to your specifications on time and at a reasonable price. As a part of our online custom essay writing service , and etc. we will also provide you with 24/7 customer assistance and limitless essay revisions until you are completely satisfied.

How to write a discursive essay?

A discursive essay requires presenting multiple viewpoints on a topic, providing evidence, and forming a balanced argument. Start with an introduction, present arguments with supporting evidence in body paragraphs, and conclude by summarizing the main points.

Discursive Essay: Topic and Structure

Many people have at least one impartial friend. A disinterested friend is one who is exceptionally mature, never takes sides, and fair in all situations. That friend is similar to a discursive essay that we will elaborate in this article. Discursive essays are well known for being impartial; they take distance from complex issues. These essays would consider all possible outcomes from any given situation and makes conclusions based on the analysis.

Discursive essays are more or less the same as that impartial friend you have who is willing to listen to your situation but avoids being emotionally attached in the issue under consideration. On the other hand, there is that friend we have who can’t avoid taking sides on issues and will quickly get emotionally attached to a problem. This particular folk react readily and would always find a side to support. They would argue in support of this given side they have chosen until the end. This individual is very different from the discursive essay but conforms to the values of an argumentative essay. At times, they can relate to a persuasive essay.

After reading this article, you will understand the best way of drafting a flawless discursive essay. It will be easier for you handling assignment on the discursive essay and will help you get a passing grade or even more.

What is a Discursive Essay?

A discursive essay is a kind of essay that would seek to explain all possible views and positions in a given topic, subject, or issue at hand. The main issue why students are given discursive essays is to determine whether a student can remain neutral on a given issue and overlook on the most charged opinions (“How to Write an Amazing Discursive Essay (2019 Guide)”, 2019). You need to demonstrate to your teacher that even though you have your stand on some issues, you are capable of putting them aside and look at things logically. The most unusual types of discursive essays take silent steps and examine every shade of an issue.

Example of an impartial friend still applies. You may decide to go to your best friend and inform him/her how your roommate failed you for lunch despite confirming to come. No matter how you present your statement, that impartial friend will still remain impartial and would replay and say: “Well, in one perspective, that sounds rude and was not the best thing to do more so after confirming attendance lunch. In this modern time, there is no point why one would fail to give notification of not attending to your invitation. Communication is straightforward and just sending a text message was enough to settle everything. However, looking at the issue from another angle, you might find out that your friend got a demanding task that left her little time to even communicate to you. I have heard her complain severally that her cellular device is poor while in office. Besides, her parents are such strict, so she seems, to have weird issues when it comes to disappointing people.”

Like an impartial friend, discursive essays do not jump into conclusions even when an issue seems to be in black and white. Even when something appears to be simple, it is never that simple. Just a fraction of items in the whole world is simple. Thus, discursive essay gives students an excellent opportunity to critically look at issues and identify any connection existing in them.

Structure of a Discursive Essay

Nothing is unique when it comes to formatting. A discursive essay has similar structure like other essays you know. In your introduction, you need to start with a hook that connects to the rest of the essay and motivates the reader to continue reading. Other sentences would then discuss the background of the issue and how it connects to the current world. A discursive essay is one of the most challenging writing tasks as you need to develop a thesis statement that does not side with any part. I am sure you are used to writing those thesis statements that are definitive and would easily guide readers towards the direction the paper takes.

The thesis statement for your discursive essay should maintain your two sides throughout your piece. For instance, you can decide to give a thesis like this: Although many people believe that death penalty should be eliminated as it is morally wrong, there are those who think that it should be administered as failure to administer it would deny victims justice. The above thesis statement has taken into consideration two possible perceptions that would be discussed.

Every paragraph should not mix the two discussions but rather dwell on one. For example, if you are discussing on the immorality of death penalty, you need to equally have other two paragraphs that discuss on the pros of the death penalty. Also if you decide to write one paragraph for the death penalty, you will also have to write another one article to counter your claim. This should be effectively achieved regardless of your actual beliefs of the claim. Each side should be treated equally and should be similar in size and even word count.

Concluding a discursive essay is different from the past conclusions students are conversant with while writing their assignments. But with this essay, you will start your conclusion by assessing all your evidence. While doing this remember not to define your stand but make more sense in your writing.

Again, we make our references to an impartial friend who never takes sides no matter what. An impartial friend will never take a side but will weigh on issues and provide a response based on reality. In the above case of missed lunch, a disinterested friend will claim that it was not right for someone to lose lunch when plans had been made early. Though the friend might not be in a position to call or text, she could have sent you an email. All in all, we are human beings and one need to consider many options. The dream job your friend tried hard to get turned distracted her from her social life. She can work for almost 12 hours a day. In this statement, the conclusion will give more clarification but does not take sides with the issue. Also, in other essays, you will have to talk about your main points discussed in your body but using a new version of the language to avoid sounding repetitive.

Some instructors will advise their students to give their viewpoint at the end of a discursive essay. This is not a true discursive essay but rather a semi-discursive essay. A purely discursive essay will not take sides even in conclusion. The ability of the composition to remain neutral throughout makes it strong compared with other essays that would change its focus at any point.

A Template For Discursive Essays

A hook sentence (quote or statistics) aimed at capturing the attention of your readers while showing them the purpose of your essay

Background sentence
Background sentence that is linking two discursive sides of your essay
Transitional sentence
Thesis statement: looking at truthfulness of the two sides
Topic sentence that supports a give side of your topic
Discussion on the relevance of your claim
Supporting information on the details provided
Detailed explanation on why you view is valid
Topic sentence to support supporting the other view that opposes the thesis statement
Important descriptions
Further description or supportive information
Discussing relevance of your opinion
A nuanced discussion on the two opposing sides, stating validity of the two viewpoints without taking any concrete stand
Revisit the first major point
Revisit the second major point
Revisit the third major point
Revisit the fourth major point

Connect the two perspectives of your thesis statement to a wide issue in existing either in the world or humanity.

Steps of Writing Discursive Essays

You need to choose a popular topic so you will have more content to write on. On your rough book, note down all basic points that will support one side of your thesis. Repeat the same for the remaining part of your thesis.

Look for available quotes or statistics that are in line with your topic. Identify the one you like most and make it a hook for your readers.

In this step, use two or three sentences to discuss the background of your issue.

Design a thesis statement that summarizes the two sides of your topic.

Use the first paragraph of your body to discuss on one perspective of this topic as well as the main points supporting it. Go deep and make your readers understand that you know the aspect inside out. (If you teacher wants a more extended essay, make sure to add paragraph).

Repeat this in the following paragraph.

Write an exciting opening sentence to conclude your work that revisits all that has been discussed in your essay. Do this is a way that will clarify your essay your points.

Summarize your main points and give if possible your preference but do not be so open to it.

Connect your points to the rest of your paper on the particular issue in the society, larger picture, or human existence.

Topics on Discursive Essay

Are two-parent homes more superior compared to single-parent homes?
Do you believe that middle children in the family are under-achievers?
Do you believe that exposing young children to violent media prepare them to the future realities in life or it will make them more violent like what they see?
Do children growing with pets behave in a more adjusted life in their adulthood?
Should religious institutions be taxed?
Do social media have a role to play in controlling online bullying and troll irrespective of the first amendment bill?
Do you believe that people who walk to work or ride on their bicycle should have reduced tax?
The best teacher is a failure.
Largest governments on the planet always try to stifle the economy of the country it controls.
Children who are grown in the suburbs might not reach their full potential as these areas lack enough experiences children need.

Example of a Discursive Essay

“Success is a lousy teacher. It seduces smart people into thinking they can’t lose.” This is a basic statement that was spoken by the richest man on earth, Bill Gates. If you sample some wealthiest people on earth, they seem to have one common understanding about success. They think that success is fickle in giving useful lessons that should be used while giving instructions. Any critical person will agree that failure has its own lessons to teach people. Even if it offers instructions, is it a better teacher than success? Both success and failure have lessons to teach us in life. But the main question remains if one is best compared to the other in a personal level development. In this essay, we will examine each experience in a more detailed way giving values of both failure and success in forcing one to develop.

Failure gives us instant lessons with the majority of them being the regular lessons. Failure will show brilliant individuals that they are can also fail. Not all projects they venture it will eventually be successful, or like by the public. Failure is a mirror in peoples’ lives, and it helps them to re-examine themselves on the mistakes they might have done in the past. One will think of where something was overestimated/underestimated or even miscalculated. Failure will teach you and endure all levels of success like introspection that we tend to avoid. If allowed, the collapse will usher in a series of mistakes. All these mistakes should be fixed first before proceeding with the journey. Thus, failure is experiential learning that gives us an accurate picture of what we expect to get if we behave in a specific manner. The moment a person decides to embrace failure; he/she will endure all moments of break-down encountered on the way. This is experimentation that paves in great innovation and discoveries that has changed the planet.

Additionally, it makes one venture in the possible growth of emotional intelligence. This is because failure is accompanied by a sense of embarrassment. Failure leaves you with nothing but to pick yourself up and try again. This will help but rather force one to forge ahead concerning grit, character, and resilience. On the other side, we have neglected the power success has to teach on the right paths of life. As one renewed entrepreneur said, you can own success but rather rent it, but even after renting it you have to understand that its rent is due every day. That is why we find successful people competing with each other daily. They have noticed that their success is not everlasting and they need to work hard in order to maintain their success. Success has forced them into a competition on a rigorous playing ground bringing them to this challenging battle. If they have to succeed in their ventures, then they need to be phenomenal. All successful individuals learn in a rather quick manner, and they leave their practices that do not make them succeed quickly to focus forward.

In conclusion, both failure and success give specific opportunities and lessons for our growth. Identifying which one is best to use is very hard and might take quite a long some time. On the one hand, failure comforts one to confront failure with more energy and approach every situation experimentally. On the side of success, it offers individuals constant power to work smarter to maintain their excellence. In the process, they connect with other successful people whom they share ideas with. Both experiences drawn from the two offers an individual opportunity to grow. Failure should be treated as a circumstance that is unavoidable if one has to succeed in life.

A discursive essay provides one with an opportunity to step into another person’s “impartial friend.” When in this position, you get a chance to examine all places that may be surrounding a given situation or idea. Many people will not do these easily. Also, discursive essays give one the freedom not to argue or convince readers on a particular idea. Instead, your work is to shed light on some ideas that are not well understood by the public. If you need professional feedback regarding your essay or you need help with writing, we are here for you. Feel free to contact us at any time. Whether you need feedback or assistance with your essay, remember you are the reason why we are here. Our professional writers will help you any time you need to write a flawless article that will impress your instructor.

Why Choose Us
Vision and Mission
Hire Writers
How it Works

20+ Impressive Higher English Discursive Essay Topics

Best Ways to Pick the Higher English Discursive Essay Topics

Table of Content

Motive of Writing

Pick the theme wisely, utilise the resources.

When it comes to choosing the higher English discursive essay topics ? Then it becomes one of the hectic tasks for the students. During the time of writing the discursive essay topic, it helps to provide the rare opportunity that students can walk the fine line that helps them to separate a discursive essay from the other sections like the argumentative or the persuasive essay. On the other hand, when we talk about certain key points for the same, the discursive essay might help to resemble the other essay types we discussed previously. They are still very distinct from it. While writing an argumentative essay convinces the students of an argument, but when it comes to the discursive essay seeks to examine the arguments on the opposing sides of the issue.

Need Personalised Assistance from Our Experts?

Share Your Requirements via Whatsapp!

What Is Higher English? What Do You Understand?

If you are one of those students who have studied in a country other than the UK, you may wonder what higher English is. Is it a course or here talking about the level? First, let us clarify that it is one of the sections that help students dive into the definition of some of the courses. In the UK, higher English is one of the courses for the students, particularly in England and Scotland. It helps to determine the English language and the literature very deeply. Below are some tips students can learn by studying higher English. They are:

Higher English as an independent subject
Additionally, other higher science programs

Most of the time, discursive essay examples higher English is one of the sections that help to focus on the students' advanced reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. By the end of the course, students should be able to do the following mentioned things:

They can able to use the complex languages
Students can able to apply the literature knowledge in life
Understand the base of the language operation

Every student is required to write an impressive and catchy discursive higher English essay, but specific issues arise in their academic life. One of them is choosing a unique and catchy for the higher English discursive essay topics . Suppose you are also one of those students facing a problem selecting the topic, then go through the below-mentioned tips. Here we discuss how students can choose the best topic for their write-up.

Also Read: How to Write Discursive Essay | Everything You Need to Know

How to Choose Higher English Discursive Essay Topics?

Once you are done knowing what is higher English discursive essay. Then it is time to move to the challenging part of selecting the topic. Below mentioned are the useful tips that students can use for choosing the topic for their topic. Also, you can ask for discursive essay examples higher English .

With the help of the discursive essay, students can present all the arguments that can convince their readers that the writer is talking about the right scenario and the relevant things. This is why you choose the topic you can elaborate on and persuade. Also, they can choose law essay writing service .

When choosing the topic, make sure that the topic is appropriate and relevant for the professor, who will go through the same and grade the paper as the requirements. Focus on covering all the pointers to meet the expectation of the professor.

First, evaluate that you have enough information on your chosen topic. Also, choose the things that are compelling essays. Finally, check for the possible relevant and trustworthy sources for the statement you will use in the essay writeup.

The above are some tips students can use to choose the best higher English discursive essay . These helpful tips make it easy for students to pick the best topic. However, if you still have doubts and cannot choose a reliable topic, we are providing some suggestions for higher English discursive essay topics that students can use for their writeup.

Amazing Higher English Discursive Essay Topics Suggestions

Below mentioned are the higher E nglish discursive essay examples . Let's have a look

The importance of literacy
Football has a direct influence on English culture.
Every school should teach foreign languages.
High schools should teach both abstinence and safe.
To ensure discipline, school uniforms should be required.
People should give off smoking.
Eating disorders in adolescent females are a serious problem that should not be overlooked.
In education, motivation theories are quite successful.
Their self-esteem greatly influences students' health.
Because alcohol harms teenage health, parents should keep an eye on their children's alcohol usage.
Children and teens should not remain silent in the face of domestic violence.
Sports betting should be prohibited by the government.
We should drink plenty of water.
The reduction of the generation gap is critical for good family interaction.
High school athletes should be subjected to drug tests.
Cheating on college examinations should be penalised severely since it is discouraging.
The advantages of active listening are critical in exhibiting excellent performance at work.
Every student should evaluate the time management practices of their peers.
Sleep is vital since sleep loss impacts college students' academic performance.
Should fast food be considered "food"?
A healthy way of life and eating should become the standard for everyone.
Alternative energy sources are critical to the planet's survival.

Above are some suggestions for choosing the d iscursive e ssay i deas f or h igher English . If you are still not able to grasp the concept and not able to choose the best one for your write-up, then get the consultation of our expert writer . They will help you in completing the essay within a short period. So let's get a consultation with professionals.

Experts Assistance for Choosing Best Essay Discursive Topic

Several students stuck with choosing the right higher English discursive essay topics . At that time Assignment Desk is the saviour for students. They provide assignment writing help to students. You can consult professional writers if you are also going through the same scenario or not getting a solution for educational issues. They have vast knowledge and rich experience in providing the best essay writing services. Also, many students in the UK take assistance from experts to complete their work within the given period. Experts will offer a wide range of topics to students.

With the help of those suggestions, students can choose the best one for their essay help online and secure higher academic grades.

Additionally, at some point, students face issues in drafting the whole write-up. So, in this case, also they can take consultation from an academic writing service provider. So what are you waiting for? Want help with essay writing tasks? Get reliable consultation.

Try Before You Buy !

Get Free PDF Link Directly to your WhatsApp !

Great!! Sumsa Free PDF Template has been delivered on your WhatsApp Number.

Share Your Requirements Now for Customized Solutions.

Delivered on-time or your money back

Our Services

Assignment Writing Service
Essay Writing Help
Dissertation Writing Service
Coursework Writing Service
Proofreading & Editing Service
Online Exam Help
Term paper writing service
Ghost Writing Service
Case Study Writing Service
Research Paper Writing Service
Personal Statement Writing Service
Resume Writing Service
Report Writing Service

To Make Your Work Original

Check your work against paraphrasing & get a free Plagiarism report!

Check your work against plagiarism & get a free Plagiarism report!

Quick and Simple Tool to Generate Dissertation Outline Instantly

Get citations & references in your document in the desired style!

Make your content free of errors in just a few clicks for free!

Generate plagiarism-free essays as per your topic’s requirement!

Generate a Compelling Thesis Statement and Impress Your Professor

FREE Features

Topic Creation USD 3.87 FREE
Outline USD 9.33 FREE
Unlimited Revisions USD 20.67 FREE
Editing/Proofreading USD 28 FREE
Formatting USD 8 FREE
Bibliography USD 7.33 FREE

Get all these features for

USD 80.67 FREE

RELATED BLOGS

7 Essay Writing Tips: Secret Shared by Experts to Impress Your Professor

Correct Your Essay Writing Concepts.! You Have Been Using the Wrong Ones

Writing an Essay in Half Time: Secrets Revealed by Best Essay Writing Service

4 Tips to Enhance Your Essay Writing Skills in an Instant

Process Essay: The Secrets of Process Essay

Professional assignment writers.

Choose a writer for your task among hundreds of professionals

Please rotate your device

We don't support landscape mode yet. Please go back to portrait mode for the best experience

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Know more

Calculate the Price

Professional Academic Help at Pocket-Friendly Prices!

Estimated Price

Limited Time Offer

Exclusive Library Membership + FREE Wallet Balance

1 Month Access !

5000 Student Samples

10,000 Answers by Experts

Get $300 Now

smartconnection.net

Sample paper on e-commerce
Problem solution essay example
Drinking Age - sample paper
Persuasive writing examples
Sample definition essay on health
Writing an essay using samples
Education essay template
Rhetorical analysis paper samples
An informative paper about K-12
Evaluative paper samples
Sample papers about life stories
Starting a paper on bullying
Writing about team leadership
Creating an essay on smoking
2000-word argumentative essay
Tips for law school students
Composing a piece about love
Synthesis paper on voting
Plagiarism checkers
Writing about violence & rap music
Writing a cause & effect essay
Parts of a persuasive essay
Role model definition paper samples
Custom writing services
Ideas for descriptive papers
Keeping to the right layout
Online Advertising - sample
Essay example on digital media
Writing a compare/contrast essay
Creating a process analysis essay
Descriptive essay topic sentence
Paper writing assistance online
Custom paper writing services
Options of top-class paper writing help
Composing a brilliant paper
Buying a brilliant paper without scam
Narrative writing basics
Visual text analysis essay
Writing a paper on pollution
Expository piece on environment
Crafting an opinion essay
Selecting a writing company
Reliable writing agencies
Creating a self-evaluation paper
Personal essay writing secrets
Writing a sociology paper
Starting an informative piece
Composing a 3-paragraph paper
Writing a piece on being famous
Creating a text response
Visual image analysis essays
Writing a literary analysis paper
Constructing a thesis
Problem solution ideas on sports
Argumentative prompts on global issues
Fresh ideas for 5th graders
Writing on gay marriage
Narrative essay writing prompts
Expository writing ideas
Questions for a biology paper
Compare/contrast essay topics
Discussing philosophy of fashion
Exploratory writing prompts
Ideas for an opinion essay
US history questions
Undergraduate illustration paper ideas
Paper topics on the Civil War
College paper topic ides to write about
Elementary School essay topics
Critical analysis paper topics
Paper ideas about national cuisine
7 years narrative paper subjects
Road safety essay topic ideas
Persuasive writing prompts
Potential titles on nutrition
Discursive paper topics
Topics for Romeo and Juliet
Expository essay writing ideas

20 Discursive Essay Topics Suggested By A+ Students

As a student in class, it is always important to present your best effort when you are given an essay to work on. This is something that will actually make your work easier when presenting your paper for marking. Not only is it a good idea for you, but it will also show the teacher that you are at an advanced study level when you deliver some incredible discursive essay topics.

The following are some ideas that you can use in this regard:

Discuss the prospect of having a woman president
Explain how minimum wages affect the economy
Discuss the correlation between the price of text books and education
Should the case for equal pay for equal work be advanced?
Explain how poverty is perpetuated by the sitting government
The grading system in school has for a long time been the subject of controversy whenever students fail to meet certain predetermined targets in life. Discuss whether it should be abolished or maintained, with relevant supporting information
Discuss the challenges that are faced in outsourcing to foreign countries
Explain the concept of consumer debt and how it affects the purchasing ability
Discuss the mortgage crisis in the economy
Is it a good thing for Shakespeare to romanticize the concept of suicide in Romeo and Juliet?
Explain the challenges that are faced by different countries in the struggle to end poaching
Discuss the ethical prospect of bringing back extinct species through cloning
Every constitution bestows upon the individuals the right to religious association. Explain why it is a violation of human rights to ban religious gear like the burkha.
Explain how the celebrity culture is eroding the moral values of young teenagers
Should zoos, circus and aquariums be shut down for the violation of animal rights?
Discuss reasons why an assassination can never be justified
Discuss the importance of allowing college students to choose the course that they want to study of their own volition
Explain the importance of a mandatory dress code in the learning environment
Discuss the prospect of making education a free for all affair
CPR and first aid techniques have come in handy on so many occasions, and helped to save lots of lives. Discuss the reasons why these techniques are supposed to be included in the normal curriculum, and made mandatory subjects

Professional essay writers - are here to write your essay from scratch.

Other Sites

UsEssayWriters
PaperWritingPros
Essay service - EssayMill
Tips for essay writers from experts.

Useful Directions

Creating a strong literary essay
Literary criticism paper samples

Online help
Basic format standards
Academic writing fundamentals
Summarising guide
Essay outline format
Common essay types
5 places to get quality help
Doing literature analysis
Obtaining process essay samples
Literature paper sample
Choosing your writing agency
Finding a source of essay samples
Acing your AP biology exam
Step-by-step instructions
Crafting a catchy intro
How to choose your agency
Orson Welles essay sample
Networking: essay writing hints
Starting out a narrative essay
An essay sample: Battle Of Algiers
Cause-and-effect paper templates
Short expository paper samples
Writing informative essays on drugs
10 Ideas for an essay on jealousy
5 reasons to hire a writing agency
Introduction for a literary essay tips
10 ways to get argumentative sample
Methods to select a writing service
4 things before hiring a writer
How to organize paragraphs
Getting sample about best friend
How to write a short essay
Essay writing tutorial
Writing a thesis statement
"Of Mice&Men" topics
7th grade essay prompts
Definition essay ideas
Comparative essay prompts
Unusual descriptive essay topics
Selecting interesting topics
Funny process essay prompts
Ethical questions to discuss
Definition argument paper questions
Analytical essay ideas
Expository writing ideas
Argumentative topics to avoid
Classification/division ideas
Process analysis essay topics
On literature
40 Religion essay ideas
Writing a persuasive essay
Writing on Things Fall Apart
Picking a topic for US history essay
Argument essay prompts on religion
Informative essay ideas for 5 graders
Medicine comparative essay ideas
Problem solution writing prompts
Vegetarian benefits: essay ideas
Essay ideas on Romeo And Juliet
22 great discursive essay topics
Essay on technology and culture
Catchy definition essay topics
Persuasive writing for 6th graders
10 argumentative essay topics
Writing an expository essay

22 Winning Discursive Essay Topics To Choose From

Writing a discursive essay has got to be one of the most challenging things that you can ever work on as a student. This is something that should however not be a problem for you these days. Surely, this website can assist you get all the relevant information that you need for the task at hand. To start you off, we will share with you a few topics here, which should set you on the right path.

Discuss the need for employees to use social networks at work
Cite reasons why internet slang like LOL should be in the dictionary
Explain the challenges of overdependence on technology for modern schools
Critique any innovation that has made us lazier than before
Discuss why so many college athletes struggle with school work
Discuss the impact of a “one car per family” policy
Explain the healing capacity of listening to your favorite music
Discuss the extent to which censorship is important for TV channels
Discuss the challenge that is posed by China as a supposed superpower
Explain some of the important things that businesses can learn from employee complaints
Discuss some reasons why attending lectures should be optional
Discuss the extent to which conflicts make a relationship better
Explain why people say smoking helps make acquaintances
Discuss whether teachers and students should interact on social media
Explain some misgivings that we have about first impressions, and their impact on interactions
Explain why energy drinks are just as bad as alcoholic drinks
Explain how to make sure that online students do not cheat
Discuss why virtual reality should not be made easily accessible to kids
Discuss whether peacekeeping missions bring peace to the countries, or if they are just an excuse for countries to invade others and create more war than there was in the first place
Explain the treatments that should be made available for kids who are hyperactive
Discuss how negative PR can help someone become more successful, with a case study on the entertainment industry
When a parent intends to homeschool their kids, discuss some of the things that they need to do in order for them to be ready. Should they have to sit through tests first?

Experienced application essay service - get your admission essay written by and expert from US.

Essay Writing Guides

Why caged birds sing: an essay sample
An essay sample on culture
Essay paper writing guidelines
Improving essay writing
Persuasive essay topics
Finding tutorial essay topics
Persuasive writing tips
Movie review writing tips
Advanced tips on essay writing
Writing a perfect essay in 10 steps
An essay example on visiting Dubai
Looking for an essay tutor
Choosing an essay topic for 7th grade
List of great topics for essay
How to make your essay shine
Convincing paper writing guidelines
Movie essay writing tutorial

Essay Writing Resources

Need help with essay? Order custom from Zessay essay writing service.

Essay writing tips
ibuyessay.com - service
myHomeworkDone

The Personal Statement Topics Ivy League Hopefuls Should Avoid

Share to Facebook
Share to Twitter
Share to Linkedin

Yale University

A compelling personal statement is a critical component of an Ivy League application, as it offers students the unique opportunity to showcase their personality, experiences, and aspirations. Kickstarting the writing process in the summer can give students a critical advantage in the admissions process, allowing them more time to brainstorm, edit, and polish standout essays. However, as students begin drafting their essays this summer, they should bear in mind that selecting the right topic is crucial to writing a successful essay. Particularly for students with Ivy League aspirations, submitting an essay that is cliche, unoriginal, or inauthentic can make the difference between standing out to admissions officers or blending into the sea of other applicants.

As ambitious students embark on the college application process, here are the personal statement topics they should avoid:

1. The Trauma Dump

Many students overcome significant hurdles by the time they begin the college application process, and some assume that the grisliest and most traumatic stories will attract attention and sympathy from admissions committees. While vulnerability can be powerful, sharing overly personal or sensitive information can make readers uncomfortable and shift focus away from a student’s unique strengths. Students should embrace authenticity and be honest about the struggles they have faced on their path to college, while still recognizing that the personal statement is a professional piece of writing, not a diary entry. Students should first consider why they want to share a particular tragic or traumatic experience and how that story might lend insight into the kind of student and community member they will be on campus. As a general rule, if the story will truly enrich the admissions committee’s understanding of their candidacy, students should thoughtfully include it; if it is a means of proving that they are more deserving or seeking to engender pity, students should consider selecting a different topic. Students should adopt a similar, critical approach as they write about difficult or sensitive topics in their supplemental essays, excluding unnecessary detail and focusing on how the experience shaped who they are today.

2. The Travelogue

Travel experiences can be enriching, but essays that merely recount a trip to a foreign country without deeper reflection often fall flat. Additionally, travel stories can often unintentionally convey white saviorism , particularly if students are recounting experiences from their charity work or mission trips in a foreign place. If a student does wish to write about an experience from their travels, they should prioritize depth not breadth—the personal statement is not the place to detail an entire itinerary or document every aspect of a trip. Instead, students should focus on one specific and meaningful experience from their travels with vivid detail and creative storytelling, expounding on how the event changed their worldview, instilled new values, or inspired their future goals.

3. The Superhero Narrative

Ivy League and other top colleges are looking for students who are introspective and teachable—no applicant is perfect (admissions officers know this!). Therefore, it’s crucial that students be aware of their strengths and weaknesses, and open about the areas in which they hope to grow. They should avoid grandiose narratives in which they cast themselves as flawless heroes. While students should seek to put their best foot forward, depicting themselves as protagonists who single-handedly resolve complex issues can make them appear exaggerated and lacking in humility. For instance, rather than telling the story about being the sole onlooker to stand up for a peer being bullied at the lunch table, perhaps a student could share about an experience that emboldened them to advocate for themselves and others. Doing so will add dimension and dynamism to their essay, rather than convey a static story of heroism.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, 4. the plan for world peace.

Similarly, many students feel compelled to declare their intention to solve global issues like world hunger or climate change. While noble, these proclamations can come across as unrealistic and insincere, and they can distract from the tangible achievements and experiences that a student brings to the table. Instead, applicants should focus on demonstrable steps they’ve taken or plan to take within their local community to enact positive change, demonstrating their commitment and practical approach to making a difference. For instance, instead of stating a desire to eradicate poverty, students could describe their extended involvement in a local charity and how it has helped them to discover their values and actualize their passions.

5. The Sports Story

While sports can teach valuable lessons, essays that focus solely on athletic achievements or the importance of a particular game can be overdone and lack depth. Admissions officers have read countless essays about students scoring the winning goal, dealing with the hardship of an injury, or learning teamwork from sports. Students should keep in mind that the personal essay should relay a story that only they can tell—perhaps a student has a particularly unique story about bringing competitive pickleball to their high school and uniting unlikely friend groups or starting a community initiative to repair and donate golf gear for students who couldn’t otherwise afford to play. However, if their sports-related essay could have been written by any high school point guard or soccer team captain, it’s time to brainstorm new ideas.

6. The Pick-Me Monologue

Students may feel the need to list their accomplishments and standout qualities in an effort to appear impressive to Ivy League admissions officers. This removes any depth, introspection, and creativity from a student’s essay and flattens their experiences to line items on a resume. Admissions officers already have students’ Activities Lists and resumes; the personal statement should add texture and dimension to their applications, revealing aspects of their character, values and voice not otherwise obvious through the quantitative aspects of their applications. Instead of listing all of their extracurricular involvements, students should identify a particularly meaningful encounter or event they experienced through one of the activities that matters most to them, and reflect on the ways in which their participation impacted their development as a student and person.

7. The Pandemic Sob Story

The Covid-19 pandemic was a traumatic and formative experience for many students, and it is therefore understandable that applicants draw inspiration from these transformative years as they choose their essay topics. However, while the pandemic affected individuals differently, an essay about the difficulties faced during this time will likely come across as unoriginal and generic. Admissions officers have likely read hundreds of essays about remote learning challenges, social isolation, and the general disruptions caused by Covid-19. These narratives can start to blend together, making it difficult for any single essay to stand out. Instead of centering the essay on the pandemic's challenges, students should consider how they adapted, grew, or made a positive impact during this time. For example, rather than writing about the difficulties of remote learning, a student could describe how they created a virtual study group to support classmates struggling with online classes. Similarly, an applicant might write about developing a new skill such as coding or painting during lockdown and how this pursuit has influenced their academic or career goals. Focusing on resilience, innovation, and personal development can make for a more compelling narrative.

Crafting a standout personal statement requires dedicated time, careful thought, and honest reflection. The most impactful essays are those that toe the lines between vulnerability and professionalism, introspection and action, championing one’s strengths and acknowledging weaknesses. Starting early and striving to avoid overused and unoriginal topics will level up a student’s essay and increase their chances of standing out.

Editorial Standards
Reprints & Permissions

IMAGES

150 Excellent Discursive Essay Topics for Students To Consider
Essential Tips on How to Write a Discursive Essay
How to Write an Impressive Discursive Essay: Tips to Succeed
How to Write a Good Discursive Essay
50 Unique Topic Ideas for Your Next Discursive Essay
50 Unique Topic Ideas for Your Next Discursive Essay

VIDEO

l Syllbus 3247 Discursive Essay
Syllabus 3247 Paper I Discursive Essay
How to Write a Discursive Essay || Psychology || Essay Writing Tips
Discursive essays/ types of discursive essays/ Steps how to write discursive essay
How to write a discursive essay? This may help with HSC & trials
Discursive Essay Thoughts

COMMENTS

50 Unique Discursive Essay Topics for Students
To find the right topic for your discursive essay, you can consider the following factors: Brainstorm: To generate some effective topic ideas for your essay, try brainstorming with your friends. This process is used in various professions (including creative writing) worldwide to find innovative ideas. People try many ways to brainstorm for ideas.
20 Discursive Essay Topics That Make the Grade
Not sure what to write about for your discursive essay? No problem. Check out these 20 discursive essay topics from the areas of health/wellness, science/technology, the environment, social media, and four unique topics on the lighter side. You can even check out some sample discursive essays for inspiration.
130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing
130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand? 20
155 Hot Discursive Essay Topics To Use Right Now
155 Exceptional Discursive Essay Topics To Try Do you have a discursive essay to prepare, and getting the right topic is proving challenging? Selecting the best title for your essay can be challenging because it requires a lot of research and a deep understanding of the respective discipline. For others, it is simply a lack of confidence and materials for research. So, what is the way out?
30 Professor Recommended Discursive Essay Topics (Updated for 2022)
Writing on your choice of discursive essay topics gives you the rare opportunity to walk the fine line that separates a discursive essay from its close cousins—the argumentative or persuasive essay. While in certain lights, a discursive essay might resemble its relatives, the argumentative or persuasive essay, they are still very distinct. For example, an argumentative essay seeks to ...
Find Ideas for Discursive Essay
Finding interesting discursive essay topics might be a difficult task, especially for students who aren't fond of writing or dislike their subject. Fortunately, this problem has a quick and simple solution, but before we get to it, let's shed light on the most common question first.
How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips, Dos & Don'ts
Discursive essays are challenging for many students. Discover the discursive essay structure and effective tips to create outstanding papers.
150 Excellent Discursive Essay Topics for Students To Consider
This blog provides details about discursive essay writing and also suggests a list of the best 150 discursive essay topics on various themes.
50 Persuasive Essay Topics to Help You Ace Your Next Assignment
In this post, we'll provide a list of 50 persuasive essay topics to help you get started on your next assignment. We'll also include some tips for writing a persuasive essay to help you craft a strong and effective argument. Whether you're a student or a professional writer, these persuasive essay topics are sure to inspire and challenge you.
How to Write a Discursive Essay with Impact and Authority
Explore the nuances of writing a discursive essay in our guide. Learn how to present contrasting viewpoints, making your essay a striking persuasion tool.
50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students
These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you're a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we've compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started!
100 Persuasive Essay Topics
Learn how to write a persuasive essay using this list of 100 topics, organized by degree of difficulty. Find the best topic for your persuasive essay.
50 Compelling Argumentative Essay Topics
50 Argumentative Essay Topics. Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and argue for or against it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas ...
30 Discursive Essay Topics to Nail That Essay in Style
A discursive essay, as the name suggests, is a discourse on a given topic. When you are assigned a discursive essay, you need to plan it a tad bit differently than other kinds of essays. For a discursive essay, you must present all arguments in favour of as well as against the topic with evidence to support your claims. In many ways, it is like an argumentative essay with a few structural ...
How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips, Examples, and Structure
How to Write a Discursive Essay. Learn how to choose compelling topics, structure your essay, and present balanced viewpoints for a powerful academic piece.
How to Write a Discursive Essay
Need to write a discursive essay? Visit this page! You will find a guide 📃 to discursive essay format, topics, and tips for developing your writing style.
How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips to Succeed & Examples
A discursive essay is an academic paper that involves a discussion on a particular topic. It is usually assigned to college students. You may be required to write a paper wherein you have to do one of the following:
How To Write Discursive Essays
Simply put, discursive essays and argumentative essays fall under the umbrella term, or the genre, of expository essays. An expository is a genre of writing that presents an analysis on a topic and provides sound evidence to support the writer's ideas.
Discursive Essay Topics & Ideas 2022
Discursive Essay Topics & Ideas 2022. Published by Alvin Nicolas at November 16th, 2022 , Revised On November 3, 2023. A discursive essay is a form of an academic essay in which you express your beliefs or points of view in favour of or against the issue. Even at times, this essay would allow you to impartially offer your points of view on all ...
Discursive Essay: Topic and Structure
A discursive essay is a kind of essay that would seek to explain all possible views and positions in a given topic, subject, or issue at hand. The main issue why students are given discursive essays is to determine whether a student can remain neutral on a given issue and overlook on the most charged opinions ("How to Write an Amazing ...
20+ Impressive Higher English Discursive Essay Topics
Are you stuck with choosing the right higher English discursive essay topics? Check the list of ideas for discursive essays from Assignment Desk's experts.
List Of 20 Discursive Essay Topics You Should Consider
20 Discursive Essay Topics Suggested By A+ Students As a student in class, it is always important to present your best effort when you are given an essay to work on.
22 Excellent Discursive Essay Topics For You To Consider
Choosing a topic for your discursive paper can be quite challenging. In order to ease your pain, we've selected 22 perfect topics to choose from.
The Personal Statement Topics Ivy League Hopefuls Should Avoid
A compelling college essay is a critical component of an Ivy League application, as it offers students the opportunity to showcase their personality and aspirations.

Discursive Essay Topics for Students

Introduction

Choosing the topic for your discursive essay

Impressive topic ideas for a discursive essay

Are you unable to write a discursive essay? Get top-notch assistance from the experts of Essayhack.io and put an end to your worries right away.

Do you want to share?

Top 100 Persuasive Essay Topics/Ideas for Students

How to Write an Essay Introduction?

How to Write a Law Essay: Writing Guide with Examples

How to Choose Ideal Argumentative Essay Topics to Work On

PEEL Paragraph a Guide to Write a Perfect Essay

100 Effective Persuasive Essay Topics

How to Write a Descriptive Essay?- Guide with Examples

Who Am I Essay : How to Write it?

How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay? - Guide with Examples

Subscribe Newsletter

130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing

155 Exceptional Discursive Essay Topics To Try

How to Select a Good Discursive Essay Topic

Good Discursive Essay Topics for Higher English

Discursive Writing Topics in Sports

Controversial Discursive Essay Topics for You

Interesting Topics for Discursive Essays

Unique Discursive Essay Topics

Good Discursive Essay Topics in History

List of Discursive Essay Topics in Sociology

Top Discursive Essay Topics on Nature

Ideas for Discursive Essays in Nursing

Use Essay Writing Help to Craft A-Rated Discursive Essays

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Five Tips on Choosing Good Topics for a Discursive Essay

Key Features of a Strong Discursive Paper

Top Ten Discursive Essay Topics for 2024/25 Academic Year

Higher English Discursive Essay Topics

Good Discursive Essay Topics for High School

Discursive Essay Topics for College Students

Controversial Discursive Essay Topics

Mental Health Topics For a Discursive Essay

Funny Topics For a Discursive Essay

Interesting Topics For a Discursive Essay

Why Is It Difficult to Write Papers Even on the Greatest Discursive Essay Ideas?

FAQ About Finding the Right Topics for Discursive Essay

How to write a discursive essay: step-by-step guideline

What is a discursive essay?

What is the difference between discursive and argumentative essays?

Discursive essays

Argumentative essays

Save your time! We can take care of your essay

Discursive writing types

1. Opinion essay.

2. Essay providing a solution to a problem.

3. For and against essay.

Discursive essay structure

10 steps to create an essay

1. Choose an appropriate topic:

2. Brainstorm your ideas:

3. Develop a clear thesis:

4. Create a discursive essay outline:

5. Write the introduction:

6. Create body paragraphs:

7. Suggest counterarguments:

8. Write the conclusion:

9. Proofread and revise:

10. Finalize and submit:

Dos and don’ts when completing a discursive essay

Don’ts:

Final thoughts

Was this helpful?

Written by Steven Robinson

Related Blog Posts

Learn how to write a deductive essay that makes you proud!

A Guide On How to Write a Critical Thinking Essay

Join our 150K of happy users

150 Excellent Discursive Essay Topics for Students To Consider

What is a Discursive Essay?

Types of Discursive Essays

For and Against Essay

Solutions Recommending Essay

Opinion Essay

How to Write a Discursive Essay