Opinion essays

Opinion essay

Definition: An opinion essay is a formal piece of essay writing which presents the author’s point of view on a particular subject supported by reasons and examples. 

The opposing viewpoint is also suggested, it goes with arguments that show that it is unconvincing. 

A Successful Opinion Essay Consists of: 
-An introduction where the topic and the author’s opinion are stated clearly.
-A main body where viewpoints supported by reasons are presented in several paragraphs. 

-A conclusion where the main points of the essay are summarized This section has also the opposing viewpoint which is proved to be unconvincing and the author’s opinion is restated in other words.

Useful Tips for Writing an Opinion Essay: 
-Decide your opinion as for the topic discussed 
-Make a list of viewpoints and reasons supporting your point of view Write well-developed paragraphs
-Use linking words and phrases to join the sentences and the paragraphs within the text 
-Start each paragraph with a topic sentence
Apply to the Following Techniques to Start and Finish Your Opinion Essays: 
-Address to the reader directly 
-Start with a quotation 
-Start with a thought provoking or rhetorical question 
-Refer to some striking or unusual fact, idea or situation
-Use the Following Expressions to Give Your Opinion: 

• As far as I am concerned, … 
• I am (not) convinced that … 
• In my opinion/view … 
• My opinion is that … 
• I (strongly)believe … 
• I (definitely) feel/think that …
•  I am inclined to believe that …

Basic Doe’s in Writing Opinion Essays: 
-Write in a formal style Introduce the topic clearly 
-State clear topic sentences 
-Use generalizations 
-Use quotations
Basic Dont’s in Writing an Opinion Essay: 
-Don’t use colloquial expressions 
-Don’t use short forms 
-Don’t use emotive vocabulary 
-Don’t use over-generalizations 
-Don’t use statistics without proper referencing
 -Don’t give personal examples