how to start an opinion in an essay

How to Write an Opinion Essay in 6 Steps

Should students be required to do homework? The answer might seem obvious to you, but sit with it for a minute. If yes, why? If no, why not? Thinking through your answer to questions like this can form the basis of an opinion essay , an essay written to express and defend an opinion. Give your writing extra polish Grammarly helps you communicate confidently Write with Grammarly

What is an opinion essay?

An opinion essay is where a writer shares a clearly formed opinion backed by research, logic, and anecdotal evidence. The purpose of an opinion essay is to clearly articulate a position, often in response to a question. It’s a writer’s way of demonstrating both what they think and why they think it.

Being able to express an opinion well is an important skill to have in the world. For example, being on social media exposes you to a wide array of opinions, so it’s good to be able to recognize which opinions are backed up with substantial evidence and which ones aren’t.

You will also find opinion essays in the Op-Ed sections of newspapers. The most famous op-eds, like those printed in the New York Times , are read by millions of readers and can have a serious impact on the way that people think.

How is an opinion essay different from other essays?

Opinion essays are only one  type of essay that you might be assigned. Different essay types have different goals. Opinion essays are great for sharing an opinion, while persuasive essays are useful for convincing the reader that an opinion is correct. Argumentative essays also demonstrate why something is correct, but they do not rely on emotions as much as persuasive essays do.  Expository essays explain the reasons why something is a certain way without taking a side.

Opinion essay: States an opinion and backs it up with facts

Argumentative essay: States a fact and backs it up with more facts

Persuasive essay: States a fact or opinion and tries to convince the reader to agree using facts and emotions

Expository essay: Explains a subject by laying out all of the evidence connected to it

How to structure an opinion essay

If this is your first time writing an opinion essay, a good way to start is by using the five-paragraph essay structure .

Paragraph 1: Introduction

Capture your reader’s attention with a good hook. Present the prompt and state your opinion.

Some tips for a good opinion essay hook:

• Use a surprising statistic.
• Profess an unpopular opinion.
• Ask a rhetorical question.
• Share an anecdote .

Paragraphs 2, 3, and 4: Body

Use facts and anecdotes to explain why you hold your opinion. Make sure you use credible sources! It’s not enough to just say what you think; you should also explain what evidence led you to that opinion.

You can also use these paragraphs to work through any counterarguments or alternative points of view that you might encounter. Addressing those in the body of your essay will strengthen your argument and help you clarify why you believe something to be true.

Paragraph 5: Conclusion

Draw a logical arrow through the body paragraphs and point it at your opinion. The conclusion is a place to remind the reader of your evidence and make your point.

What to include in an opinion essay

A clear opinion (thesis): Your opinion is your thesis. Forming your opinion might happen quickly in response to the prompt, or it might be something that you’ve been mulling over for a long time. Either way, your opinion should be clear from the start of the essay.

Novelty: A good opinion essay adds something to the discourse. Maybe your opinion doesn’t align with the mainstream. Or, if your opinion is generally agreed upon, you could find some interesting new research that supports it.

Semiformal tone: It’s easy to drift into a casual, conversational tone in opinion essays because you’re writing about a personal topic. Keeping a measured, semiformal tone that’s not too stiff or too casual will lend more credibility to your opinion.

What not to include in an opinion essay

“I think”: It’s true that technically an opinion essay is all about what you think. It’s OK to use this phrase to begin, but your essay will fall flat if you rely only on “I think” statements without providing external evidence for how or why you think those things.

Ambiguity: By the time you sit down to outline and write your essay, you should have a clear understanding of what you think and why you think it. It’s fine for your opinion to stretch over the course of your essay, but if you aren’t clear about your opinion at the beginning of the essay, you can’t expect your reader to have a clear understanding of your ideas after reading it.

Rambling: Stick to the subject. Again, because the material begins in your own head, it’s easy to get off track following your own wandering thoughts. If you need to, allow yourself to go off on those tangents, but just remember to go back and cut out any material that isn’t relevant to your thesis before you turn the essay in.

Write an opinion essay in 6 steps

1 brainstorm .

If you don’t have a prompt, this is where you will start brainstorming all of the topics you might want to write about. If you do have a prompt, then brainstorm all of the possible answers to it.

2 Research 

In this step you’ll form your opinion. As you form it, continue to ask yourself why. Why do you believe something to be true? Do you have data to support it? Have you heard similar stories from multiple sources? If something sounds true to you, but you’re not sure why, continue to investigate it using primary and secondary sources. If it’s a valid opinion, you will find the support somewhere.

This is also a time to research any counterarguments or alternative perspectives. Including these in your essay shows you have done your research thoroughly. However, make sure you are presenting them in a way that still supports your point.

Create an outline according to the five-paragraph essay structure mentioned above. Adjust the paragraph count according to the assignment you’re given and how much room you need to explain or support your opinion.

4 Drafting 

It’s finally time to write! Start with a rough draft and remember that it’s called rough for a reason. Write it all down. You’ll have time to clean it up and make it sound nice when you’re revising. If you don’t write anything down, you won’t have anything to revise. For opinion essays, include any quotes or research you’ve gathered and cite your sources.

Now is the time to revise , or clean it up. Make sure your essay flows logically; jumping from one topic to the next will disorient the reader. Check that all of your evidence supports your opinion. Listen to the way your essay sounds (literally, read it out loud to yourself). And triple-check that your opinion is crystal clear!

6 Proofread

The proofreading stage is where you get granular. Make sure your words are spelled correctly and that your commas and periods are in their places. If you aren’t confident in your proofreading skills, you can use Grammarly to review the essay with you.

Opinion essay outline (example)

If you’re not sure what an opinion essay should look like, here is an example of an opinion essay outline using the five-paragraph essay structure.

Prompt: Should students be required to do homework?

Introduction

Hook reader with a statistic about how much time the average student will spend on homework.

State the prompt: We accept homework as a natural part of our scholarly lives. But should we?

Thesis: I do not believe homework should be required of students because it widens inequality and damages students’ mental health.

Body paragraph 1

Homework widens the gap between socioeconomic classes because those with access to time and resources, like tutors, will do better on their homework and get higher grades in class.

Talk about the paper showing the gap in education investment between high- and low-income families. 

Body paragraph 2

Homework creates extra stress in students’ lives and can have a negative effect on mental health.

Quote from Stanford study : “students in high-achieving communities who spend too much time on homework experience more stress, physical health problems, a lack of balance and even alienation from society.”

Body paragraph 3

Counterargument: Some may argue for homework as a way of instilling discipline and persistence in students, regardless of how well a student performs on the assignment.

While that is true, students learn and demonstrate discipline and persistence simply in the act of getting up and going to school five days a week. Provide an anecdote about your morning routine and getting ready for school every day.

Restate opinion: I do not think that homework should be required of students.

The way that homework exacerbates inequality and harms mental health creates costs that far outweigh the benefits of homework.

Opinion essay FAQs

An opinion essay is an essay where the writer forms an opinion about a topic, often in the form of an answer to a question, and uses factual and anecdotal evidence to support that opinion.

What is the purpose of an opinion essay?

Opinion essays are used to clearly and informatively articulate a position. Sometimes these positions go against the grain and need extended explanation. Sometimes they are a fresh take on an already popular belief. The opinion essay allows a writer to form an opinion and demonstrate to their reader why they believe it to be true.

How is an opinion essay different from other kinds of essays?

Opinion essays are different from other types of essays because the thesis is based on the writer’s own opinion. Other essays, like argumentative, persuasive, and expository essays, require the thesis to be formed around an external fact, event, or argument.

Essay Papers Writing Online

Opinion essay – the power and importance of effective writing.

When it comes to expressing one’s viewpoint, the written word holds tremendous power. An opinion essay, also known as a persuasive essay, allows individuals to convey their beliefs, values, and perspectives on a particular subject. It serves as a platform for writers to convince readers of their stance by presenting logical arguments backed by evidence and examples. Crafting an exceptional opinion essay requires a combination of critical thinking skills, efficient research, and persuasive writing techniques. In this article, we will explore some useful strategies and tips to help you master the art of writing a remarkable opinion essay.

Step 1: Choosing a Compelling Topic

The first step in writing an outstanding opinion essay is selecting a compelling topic that resonates with your interests and offers ample scope for debate. The key is to choose a subject that is thought-provoking, relevant, and engaging to your target audience. Brainstorm ideas, conduct preliminary research, and identify unique angles or perspectives within your chosen topic. This will help you narrow down your focus and provide a solid foundation for constructing a compelling argument.

Step 2: Developing a Clear Thesis Statement

Once you have selected a topic, the next step is to develop a clear and concise thesis statement that encapsulates the main argument of your essay. The thesis statement should articulate your stance on the topic and provide a roadmap for the rest of your essay. A strong thesis statement is specific, debatable, and supported by compelling evidence. It serves as the backbone of your essay and helps ensure coherence and clarity in your writing.

Step 3: Researching and Gathering Evidence

An excellent opinion essay is built on a foundation of thorough research and credible evidence. To strengthen your argument, conduct in-depth research on your topic using reputable sources such as scholarly articles, books, and reputable websites. Take notes, highlight key points, and gather evidence to support your thesis statement. It is critical to ensure that the evidence you present is accurate, reliable, and relevant to your argument.

Step 4: Structuring Your Essay

A well-structured essay is crucial for conveying your ideas effectively. Begin with an attention-grabbing introduction that provides background information on the topic and hooks the reader. Follow this with a well-organized body that presents your main points, supported by evidence and examples. Use paragraphs to separate different ideas and ensure logical flow throughout the essay. Finally, conclude your essay by summarizing your main arguments and reinforcing your thesis statement.

Step 5: Polishing Your Writing

To write an exceptional opinion essay, it is essential to pay attention to the finer details of your writing. Ensure that your grammar, spelling, and punctuation are flawless. Use clear and concise language to convey your ideas effectively, and avoid vague or ambiguous statements. Additionally, consider the tone and style of your writing, adapting it to suit your target audience. Finally, revise and edit your essay to eliminate any errors or inconsistencies and ensure a polished final product.

By following these tips and strategies, you can elevate your opinion essay writing skills and effectively communicate your viewpoint to persuade and engage your readers. Remember, practice makes perfect, so seize every opportunity to refine your writing and express your opinions with confidence and conviction.

Choose a compelling topic that sparks interest

In order to captivate your readers and make your opinion essay stand out, it is essential to carefully select a topic that evokes curiosity and engages their interest. The topic you choose should be thought-provoking, relevant, and have the potential to generate a strong emotional response among your target audience.

When selecting a topic, consider what subjects or issues you are genuinely passionate about. By choosing a topic that genuinely sparks your interest, you are more likely to convey genuine enthusiasm and engage your readers. Additionally, consider the current societal or cultural climate, as well as any ongoing debates or controversies, as these can provide excellent sources of inspiration for your opinion essay.

Furthermore, always try to choose a topic that is unique and original. While it can be tempting to select a popular or trending topic, keep in mind that many other writers may have already covered these subjects extensively. To make your essay truly standout, it is important to select a topic that is less explored or offer a fresh perspective on a well-established topic. This will not only capture the attention of your readers but also demonstrate your ability to think critically and provide a unique viewpoint.

Overall, selecting a compelling topic that sparks interest is crucial for the success of your opinion essay. By choosing a topic that you are passionate about, exploring current debates or controversies, and offering a unique perspective, you can ensure that your essay captivates your audience and stands out among others.

Develop a strong thesis statement to guide your essay

One of the most crucial elements of writing an outstanding opinion essay is developing a strong thesis statement to serve as a guiding point for your entire essay. The thesis statement is a concise and clear statement that presents the main argument or standpoint of your essay. It should be a single sentence that encompasses the essence of your opinion and sets the tone for the rest of your writing.

The thesis statement acts as a roadmap that helps both you as the writer and your readers to navigate through your essay. It provides a clear direction and purpose to your writing, giving your readers a sense of what to expect and what stance you will take on the given topic.

When developing your thesis statement, it is important to choose a strong and specific argument that can be supported with evidence and examples throughout your essay. Avoid general or vague statements that lack clarity and precision. Instead, opt for a statement that is debatable and provokes thought and discussion.

To develop a strong thesis statement, start by brainstorming and generating ideas related to your topic. Consider the main points you want to make and the key arguments you want to present in your essay. Once you have a clear understanding of your position, craft a concise sentence that encapsulates your main argument.

In the weak thesis statement example, the argument is vague and lacks specific reasons. On the other hand, the strong thesis statement clearly outlines the negative effects of fast food consumption and provides specific points that will be addressed in the essay.

Remember, a strong thesis statement sets the foundation for a well-structured and persuasive opinion essay. It serves as a guide for your writing and helps you stay focused on your main argument throughout your essay.

Use reliable sources to support your arguments

When crafting an opinion essay, it is crucial to back up your arguments with evidence from credible sources. Utilizing reliable sources will not only strengthen your arguments but also lend credibility to your essay.

When searching for sources to support your opinions, look for reputable websites, scholarly articles, and books written by experts in the field. It is important to ensure that the sources you use are reliable and trustworthy. This can be achieved by checking the author’s credentials and reputation, as well as the publication or website’s credibility.

Using credible sources shows that you have done thorough research and are presenting well-informed opinions. It demonstrates to your readers that your arguments are backed by evidence and are not simply based on personal beliefs or biases. By using reliable sources, you are contributing to the overall quality and validity of your essay.

By utilizing these types of sources, you can ensure that your arguments are well-supported and grounded in factual information. It is also important to properly cite your sources to avoid plagiarism and give credit to the original authors.

Remember, using reliable sources not only strengthens your arguments but also adds credibility to your opinions. Take the time to thoroughly research and find sources that are respected and trustworthy to enhance the quality of your opinion essay.

Structure your essay with clear and logical paragraphs

When it comes to crafting an impressive opinion essay, one crucial aspect to focus on is the structure of your paragraphs. By dividing your essay into clear and logical paragraphs, you can effectively communicate your ideas and arguments to your readers.

A well-structured essay is like a well-organized house, where each room serves a specific purpose. Similarly, each paragraph in your essay should have a clear topic and contribute to the overall argument. This helps your readers understand the flow of your thoughts and makes it easier for them to follow your reasoning.

• Introductory paragraph: This paragraph should grab the reader’s attention and provide some background information about the topic. It should also include your thesis statement, which states your opinion on the subject.
• Body paragraphs: The body of your essay should consist of several paragraphs, each focusing on a different point or argument. Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. Provide supporting evidence and examples to strengthen your arguments.
• Counterargument paragraph: In an opinion essay, it’s important to address counterarguments and refute them. Dedicate a paragraph to acknowledging opposing viewpoints and explaining why they are not valid.
• Conclusion: The concluding paragraph should summarize your main points and restate your thesis. It should leave the reader with a clear understanding of your opinion and the arguments you have presented.

By structuring your essay with clear and logical paragraphs, you can make your arguments more persuasive and help your readers navigate through your ideas effortlessly. Remember to use transition words and phrases to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs, creating a cohesive and coherent essay.

Conclude with a persuasive and memorable closing statement

As you reach the end of your opinion essay, it is crucial to leave your readers with a strong and impactful final thought. Your closing statement should aim to persuade and leave a lasting impression on your audience. By carefully crafting your closing statement, you can effectively summarize your main arguments and leave your readers with a clear and persuasive call to action or thought-provoking idea.

To create a persuasive and memorable closing statement, consider recapping your main points and reinforcing the central theme of your essay. By reminding your readers of the key arguments you have presented, you can reinforce your position and demonstrate the strength of your opinion. Additionally, you can also use your closing statement to connect your essay’s topic to a broader context or real-world implications, emphasizing the importance of your opinion.

Furthermore, a memorable closing statement should make your readers think and reflect. It can be effective to pose a thought-provoking question, challenge common assumptions, or present a powerful anecdote or statistic. By engaging your readers’ emotions and encouraging critical thinking, you can leave a lasting impact and potentially inspire further discussion or action on the topic you have written about.

Remember to keep your closing statement concise and focused. Avoid introducing new arguments or information that may dilute the impact of your overall essay. Instead, aim for clarity and a memorable ending that reinforces your main points and leaves a strong impression on your readers.

Related Post

How to master the art of writing expository essays and captivate your audience, convenient and reliable source to purchase college essays online, step-by-step guide to crafting a powerful literary analysis essay, unlock success with a comprehensive business research paper example guide, unlock your writing potential with writers college – transform your passion into profession, “unlocking the secrets of academic success – navigating the world of research papers in college”, master the art of sociological expression – elevate your writing skills in sociology.

Opinion Writing: a Guide to Writing a Successful Essay Easily

An opinion essay requires students to write their thoughts regarding a subject matter. Relevant examples and explanations back their point of view. Before starting an opinion paper, it is important to study the definition, topics, requirements, and structure. Referring to examples is also highly useful. Perhaps you need help with our admission essay writing service ? Take a look at this guide from our dissertation writing service to learn how to write an opinion essay like an expert.

What Is an Opinion Essay

A common question among students is: ‘What is an Opinion Essay?' It is an assignment that contains questions that allow students to share their point-of-view on a subject matter. Students should express their thoughts precisely while providing opinions on the issue related to the field within reasonable logic. Some opinion essays type require references to back the writer's claims.

Opinion writing involves using a student's personal point-of-view, which is segregated into a point. It is backed by examples and explanations. The paper addresses the audience directly by stating ‘Dear Readers' or the equivalent. The introduction involves a reference to a speech, book, or play. This is normally followed by a rhetorical question like ‘is the pope Catholic?' or something along those lines.

What Kind of Student Faces an Opinion Essay

Non-native English-speaking students enrolled in the International English Language Testing System by the British Council & Cambridge Assessment English are tasked with learning how to write the opinion essays. This can be high-school or college students. It is designed to enhance the level of English among students. It enables them to express their thoughts and opinions while writing good opinion essay in English.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.

Wednesday Addams

Mysterious, dark, and sarcastic

You’re the master of dark humor and love standing out with your unconventional style. Your perfect costume? A modern twist on Wednesday Addams’ gothic look. You’ll own Halloween with your unapologetically eerie vibe. 🖤🕸️

Get Your Opinion ESSAY READY TODAY!

We will write you a plagiarism-free opinion essay, with a title page, unlimited revisions, and bunch of other cool features included!

What Are the Requirements of an Opinion Essay?

Avoid Going Off-Topic: Always write an opinion essay within relevance to answer the assigned question. This is also known as ‘beating around the bush' and should not be included in any opinion paragraph as it may lower your grade.

Indent the First Paragraph: With most academic papers, opinion writing is not different. Therefore, it contains the rule of indenting the first line of the introduction.

A Well-Thought Thesis: The full thesis statement is a brief description of the opinion essay. It determines the rest of the paper. Include all the information that you wish to include in the body paragraphs

The Use of Formal Languages: Although it is okay to write informally, keep a wide range of professional and formal words. This includes: ‘Furthermore,' ‘As Stated By,' ‘However', & ‘Thus'.

Avoid Internet Slang: In the opinion paper, avoid writing using slang words. Don'tDon't include words like ‘LOL', ‘OMG', ‘LMAO', etc.

The Use of First Person Language (Optional): For the reason of providing personal thought, it is acceptable to write your personal opinion essay in the first person.

Avoid Informal Punctuation: Although the requirements allow custom essay for the first-person language, they do not permit informal punctuation. This includes dashes, exclamation marks, and emojis.

Avoid Including Contradictions: Always make sure all spelling and grammar is correct.

We also recommend reading about types of sentences with examples .

Opinion Essay Topics

Before learning about the structure, choosing from a wide range of opinion essay topics is important. Picking an essay theme is something that can be done very simply. Choosing an excellent opinion essay topic that you are interested in or have a passion for is advisable. Otherwise, you may find the writing process boring. This also ensures that your paper will be both effective and well-written.

• Do sports differ from ordinary board games?
• Is using animals in circus performances immoral?
• Why should we be honest with our peers?
• Should all humans be entitled to a 4-day workweek?
• Should all humans become vegetarians?
• Does a CEO earn too much?
• Should teens be barred from having sleepovers?
• Should everyone vote for their leader?
• The Pros & Cons of Day-Light Saving Hours.
• What are the most energy-efficient and safest cars of X year?

Opinion Essay Structure

When it comes to opinion paragraphs, students may struggle with the opinion essay format. The standard five-paragraph-essay structure usually works well for opinion essays. Figuring out what one is supposed to include in each section may be difficult for beginners. This is why following the opinion essay structure is something all beginners should do, for their own revision before writing the entire essay.

You might also be interested in getting more information about: 5 PARAGRAPH ESSAY

Opinion essay introduction

• Address the audience directly, and state the subject matter.
• Reference a speech, poem, book, or play.
• Include the author's name and date of publication in brackets.
• 1 or 2 sentences to make up a short description.
• 1 or 2 summarizing sentences of the entire paper.
• 1 sentence that links to the first body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 1

• Supporting arguments
• Explanation
• A linking sentence to the second body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 2

• Supporting argument
• A linking sentence to the third body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 3

• A linking sentence to the conclusion.

Conclusion paragraph

• Summary of the entire paper
• A conclusive sentence (the bigger picture in conclusion)

If you need some help, leave us a message ' write my essay cheap ' and we'll help.

Opinion Essay Examples

Do you need something for reference? Reading opinion essay examples can expand your knowledge of this style of writing, as you get to see exactly how this form of an essay is written. Take a look at our samples to get an insight into this form of academic writing.

Over the past, American popular culture has been strong in creating racial stereotypes. Images displayed through television, music, and the internet have an impact on how individuals behave and what individuals believe. People find their identities and belief systems from popular culture. Evidently, I believe that American pop culture has created racial stereotypes that predominantly affect other ethnic minorities. Analyzing the history of America reveals that African Americans have always had a problem defining themselves as Americans ever since the era of slavery. AfricanAmericans have always had a hard time being integrated into American culture. The result is that African Americans have been subjected to ridicule and shame. American pop culture has compounded the problem by enhancing the negative stereotypes ofAfrican American. In theatre, film, and music, African Americans have been associated with vices such as murder, theft, and violence.

The family systems theory has a significant revelation on family relations. I firmly agree that to understand a particular family or a member, they should be around other family members. The emotional connection among different family members may create functional or dysfunctional coexistence, which is not easy to identify when an individual is further from the other members. Taking an example of the extended family, the relationship between the mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law may be tense, but once they are outside the family, they can pretend to have a good relationship. Therefore, I agree with the theory that the existing emotional attachment and developed culture in the family is distinctively understood when the family is together.

Opinion writing is a form of academic paper that asks students to include their thoughts on a particular topic. This is then backed by a logical explanation and examples. Becoming more knowledgeable is a practical way to successfully learn how to write an opinion paper. Before writing anything, it is essential to refer to important information. That includes the definition, topics, opinion writing examples, and requirements. This is what turns amateur writers into master writers.

Feeling like you need some assistance with your essay? No matter what kind of writer you need, opinion or persuasive essay writing service online , our team consists of experts in all fields. Our college essay writing service helps those students who need an extra push when it comes to their assignments.

Need Qualified Essay Help?

Are you struggling with your opinion paper? Hit the button below to get writer's help. All your requests are processed fast.

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.

An opinion essay

Learn how to write an opinion essay.

Do the preparation task first. Then read the text and tips and do the exercises.

Preparation

Matching_MjMxMDM=

Some people think that some types of criminals should not go to prison. Instead they should do unpaid work in the community. To what extent do you agree?

Owing to the great variety of crimes that can be punishable by prison, some people argue that not all criminals are the same and it would therefore be more appropriate to give certain criminals community service instead. I agree that in some cases, prison may not be the best solution and community service would probably have more benefits.

One justification given for prisons is to keep society safe by removing criminals from the outside world. So the first thing to consider is if someone who has broken the law is a danger to other people. In the case of violent crime, there is an argument to keep the perpetrator away from society. However, burglary or possession of drugs, for example, does not involve violence against other people so the criminal does not present a direct danger to anyone in the community. Keeping these types of criminals in prison is expensive for the taxpayer and does not appear to be an effective punishment as they often commit the same crime again when they come out of prison.

Personally, I also believe punishments should reform people so they do not reoffend. A further reason not to put these people in prison is that they may mix with more dangerous and violent criminals, potentially committing a worse crime when they are released. By keeping them in the community, helping others, they not only learn new skills, but they could also develop more empathy and care towards others. If this occurs, society can only benefit.

Critics of this more rehabilitative approach to crime believe that justice should be harsh in order to deter people from committing similar crimes and that community service could be less likely to have that effect. However, there is very little evidence to suggest that long prison sentences deter criminals.

In conclusion, putting criminals who are not a danger to society in prison is expensive and, in my opinion, ineffective, both as a deterrent and as a form of rehabilitation. Community service for non-violent crimes benefits both society and the offender. That said, it would be useful to have more data to work out whether community service or prison is more likely to stop someone reoffending. I strongly believe that decisions on how best to deal with criminals should be based on evidence of what actually works.

• Introduce your essay by restating the question in your own words.
• If the essay asks you to what extent do you agree?,  make your opinion clear throughout. You can either agree, partially agree or disagree with the statement, explaining and justifying your opinion.
• Introduction
• The first reason why you agree/disagree
• The second reason why you agree/disagree
• The third reason why you agree/disagree (if you have one)
• Use phrases to organise and link your ideas, e.g. Owing to … , One justification for … , The first thing to consider is … , A further reason … , In conclusion ... .
• If you do not have solid evidence for your ideas, use modal verbs such as might , may or could  (e.g. they could  develop more empathy and care ) or other tentative phrases (e.g. it does not appear to be an effective punishment ).
• Conclude by restating your opinion and summarising your two or three main arguments.

Do you agree that community service is better than prison for some crimes?

Language level

Hi team, I have a few questions below. Thank you very much!

1) Keeping these types of criminals in prison is expensive for the taxpayer and ...

--> should / could we use 'taxpayers'? 'the taxpayer' appears to refer to a specific group(?) Are there other similar examples?

2)  One justification given for prisons is to keep society safe by removing criminals from the outside world...

--> should we use 'prison' i.e. an uncountable noun here?

3) By keeping them in the community, helping others, they not only learn new skills, but they could also...

--> could we use 'not only do they learn new skills, but they could also..' or 'they do not only learn new skills, but they could also..' (and if not why not?)

--> specifically, with what sentence structures could we omit ' do ' (not only learn)?

• Log in or register to post comments

Hello _Yan_,

1) Keeping these types of criminals in prison is expensive for the taxpayer and ... --> should / could we use 'taxpayers'? 'the taxpayer' appears to refer to a specific group(?) Are there other similar examples?

Both 'the taxpayer' and 'taxpayers' (without an article) are possible here. Both have a general meaning. 'Taxpayers' refers to the group of people who pay tax. 'The taxpayer' refers to our image or concept of the noun. In other words, we are describing the concept in our heads, not a particular individual:

This use of the definite article is fairly common:

The blue whale is the largest living creature on our planet.

2)  One justification given for prisons is to keep society safe by removing criminals from the outside world... --> should we use 'prison' i.e. an uncountable noun here?

'Prison' would describe the concept of prison, while 'prisons' describes the actual physical buildings. Both could be used in this sentence.

3) By keeping them in the community, helping others, they not only learn new skills, but they could also... --> could we use 'not only do they learn new skills, but they could also..' or 'they do not only learn new skills, but they could also..' (and if not why not?) --> specifically, with what sentence structures could we omit ' do ' (not only learn)?

The first is fine. It's an example of inversion used with a negative adverbial ('not only'). There are many similar adverbials:

Never have I see a better show.

Hardly had she left when the phone rang.

No sooner had we arrived than we started arguing.

The second example does not sound very natural to me. Although we can use an auxiliary verb to add emphasis to a sentence, this is generally done when we are disagreeing with or correcting someone:

Paul didn't go to Paris.

That's wrong. Paul did go to Paris.

Your context does not suggest any kind of correction or disagreement, so it feels rather strange.

The LearnEnglish Team

Good day Sir/Madam,

I would like to ask about the expression ‘So the first thing is to…’. In academic and formal writing, should I avoid using ‘thing’ or ‘so’ or is it still fine? Thanks a lot for taking your time to read this. Hope to hear from you.

Your sincerely, Kimmie

Hi kimmie,

Thanks for your question. In academic and formal writing, there is a general preference for precision over vagueness, so generally speaking it's better to avoid this usage of  so  and  thing  and use more precise and academic terms when they are available (e.g. Therefore, the first factor/issue to consider is ... ).

However, if you search academic writing, you will find writers do use  thing  sometimes, especially in fixed phrases (e.g.  the first thing /   the same thing ) or technical terms ( e.g. the Internet of Things ). Some writers might also use more general terms first before moving onto more precise terms.

(Note: The essay on the page above is in a somewhat formal style but not very formal.)

I hope that helps.

LearnEnglish team

Hi Jonathan

This is immensely valuable for me. Thank you so much for your swift response. Hope you have a nice day.

In my country it is often debated whether community services are better than prison for certain crimes. I think it's pretty obvious that it should be an option for less important faults. However, sometimes it happens that a judge decides to grant this benefit to some type of powerful criminals who cause more significant damage to society than others who do not have the same possibility, such as financial criminals or corrupt government agents. In my opinion, these types of sentences can have a bad impact on people, since they see that these behaviors are not severely punished and are somehow protected by the law. In conclusion, I agree that certain types of crimes should avoid prison, but I believe that before implementing it, the society must agree on which crimes will be able to enjoy this possibility to ensure that justice is fair for all.

please approve for testing

Hello aaron,

We check all comments before publishing them, which is why it's taken some time for your comment to be published.

Normally we delete a comment like this -- and we deleted the other one you made -- but have let this one through so you can see that it works. 

We are a small team, so it can sometimes be several hours before comments are published -- just wanted to tell you for the future.

We look forward to hearing more from you!

All the best, Kirk LearnEnglish team

The subject of how criminals should be punished is complicated, there are a lot of different opinions defending their points of view. There are two main ideas the first is arresting all the offenders, and the second idea is separating those not dangerous to society, and sending them to work in the community. In my opinion, I agree with the second idea, because there are many expenses with the prisons and the prisoners, so if lessen the population in this environment the conditions and the quality could be better than if there were overpopulation, avoiding justice being done right. Furthermore, these people aren't violent and dangerous to others, so with bad company in the prison, they might become bad people too. In this case, it's an awful idea to mix a different kind of person. Therefore, it's an excellent suggestion to oblige these people to do work in society, but with supervision in the right way and strictly.

Online courses

Group and one-to-one classes with expert teachers.

Learn English in your own time, at your own pace.

One-to-one sessions focused on a personal plan.

Get the score you need with private and group classes.  

How to Write an Opinion Essay: Examples, Structure, & Tips

An opinion essay is a formal piece of writing which presents the author’s point of view on a particular subject supported by reasoning and examples . The opposing viewpoint is also suggested, but it is followed by arguments that show its inconsistency. Take a look at the guide prepared by Custom-writing experts to learn how to write a perfect opinion essay!

• 🔤 Opinion Essay Basics
• 📑 Essay Structure

🖊️ Opinion Essay Format

• 💬 How to Start an Opinion Essay
• ✅ Dos and Don’ts

👌 Opinion Essay Examples

• 💡 Essay Tips

🏁 Concluding Remarks

🔗 references, 🔤 writing an opinion essay: basics.

You may be wondering: How do I write an opinion essay? How is it different from a persuasive, an argumentative, or a pros and cons essay ?

It’s simple: When you write an argumentative or persuasive essay , you should provide counterpoints and describe the essay topic from different perspectives. In an opinion paper, you don’t have to focus on the advantages and disadvantages in comparison. Instead, focus only on your opinion about the issue .

What Is an Opinion Essay?

An opinion essay, sometimes called “argumentative” or “persuasive,” presents the author’s perception of a subject and supporting arguments. It is written in a standard essay format. In such essays, authors usually try to persuade readers that their opinion is correct.

You may say: “I’m afraid to take a stand,” or “I don’t know what to say.” Relax. There’s nothing to worry about if your arguments are based on well-researched data. Speaking about opinion essay topics, some students find it difficult enough to choose the perfect one. But it’s not so hard: Think about something that engages you and that you feel strongly about.

Do you still have no clues about what to write? Check our 100 free ideas for an argumentative or persuasive essay and choose the topic that you have a strong opinion on. Then pick up a few reasons supporting your point of view and gather the facts that you’ll use as evidence.

📑 Opinion Essay Structure

The next step is to write an opinion essay outline . First of all, it will help you to overcome the fear of the blank page. Second, you’ll have a broken-down list of ideas and an organized place for your random thoughts. This will help you write an assignment faster.

Here’s an example of an opinion paper outline:

• An introduction . Write a thesis statement and the reasons that support your opinion. Give your readers a hook to engage them with the topic
• The main body . Break it into several paragraphs where you provide arguments and supporting examples, statements, and facts.
• A conclusion . When ending a paper, restate the main thesis and summarize the central points of the essay.

Develop an outline while you’re researching the topic and place the pieces of evidence where they make the most sense. You don’t have to write the whole assignment at a time. Just put stand-alone examples and facts in the places where they should go.

A well-prepared outline for an opinion essay is almost 70 percent of the work. All you’ll need to do is simply join your arguments by bridging the language.

Now that you’re familiar with the basic opinion essay structure, let’s see how exactly you should format each part of your paper.

Opinion Essay Introduction

Start your writing with a hook sentence that grabs the reader’s interest. You can use a surprising fact, a provocative question, or a relevant quote as a hook.

Have you ever stopped to consider the impact that social media has on our lives and society as a whole?

Then, provide background information and a thesis statement. It should present your opinion on the topic and the main arguments that support your point of view.

The rise of social media platforms has had detrimental effects on teenagers’ mental health due to increased feelings of loneliness, heightened levels of anxiety, and the negative impact on self-esteem.

Opinion Essay Body

In the body paragraphs, you need to explain your arguments and provide evidence to support them. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that introduces the point you are discussing.

The constant exposure to idealized and unrealistic images on social media platforms can contribute to insecurities and anxiety among teenagers, affecting their mental well-being.

Then, provide specific examples, facts, or statistics to support your reason. You may also include personal experiences or anecdotes to make your points more convincing.

According to The Mental Health Foundation’s survey in 2019, four in ten teenagers (40%) admitted that posts on social media had caused them to worry about body image. This statistic highlights the concerning impact of social media on teenagers’ mental well-being.

Opinion Essay Conclusion

The last paragraph of your opinion essay is the conclusion. Here, you restate your thesis and summarize the main points from the body paragraphs.

Social media platforms have negatively impacted teenagers’ mental well-being through the feelings of isolation, increased depression levels, and detrimental effects on the body image.

• Finally, you should end with a strong and memorable closing statement or a call to action. This will help you leave a lasting impression on the reader.

If all people work together raising awareness and advocating for change, we will eventually build a healthier online environment.

Opinion Essay Format

Correct formattion is another essential aspect of essay writing. Here are helpful guidelines you can use:

• Stick to a readable 12-point font, such as Times New Roman or Arial.
• Set 1-inch margins on all sides of the document.
• Double-space the entire essay, including the title and headings.
• Properly cite any sources used in your essay according to your required citation style (APA, MLA, Harvard, etc.)

If you are unsure about any specific formatting requirements for your opinion essay, we recommend consulting your school’s writing guidelines or asking your professor for clarification.

💬 How to Start an Opinion Essay – 30 Ideas

When it comes to opinion writing, a lot of students can’t explain their point of view. This shows a lack of critical thinking skills and leads to low grades. Even the perfect opinion essay format won’t save the situation in this case.

If you need a quick fix for your assignment, check our list of transition words and phrases to help you start putting your opinions:

• As far as I am concerned, …
• I am (not) convinced that …
• In my opinion/view …
• My opinion is that …
• I (firmly)believe that …
• I (definitely) feel/think that …
• I am inclined to believe that …
• Personally, I believe that…
• It is clear that…
• It seems to me that…
• In my mind…
• As I see it…
• My principal reason is…
• Another reason is…
• It is widely known that…
• It could be argued that…
• The well-known fact is…
• Research has shown that…
• For instance/for example…
• This suggests that…
• It would seem that…
• This proves that…
• This supports the …
• Even though / Although…
• In contrast…
• Despite the fact that…
• In spite of…
• In order to…
• In conclusion…

And don’t forget to use nouns, adjectives, and adverbs, or make your own phrases.

✅ Opinion Essay Rules

Writing an opinion essay may seem challenging, but if you keep the following dos and don’ts in mind, you will easily craft a compelling and well-structured essay. Check out the opinion essay rules we’ve collected for you below.

Opinion Essay Dos

• Use formal style. When writing an opinion essay, you should use a formal style, avoiding slang and colloquial language. It means using proper grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary suitable for an academic setting.
• Choose a side on the issue. You should take a clear stance on a particular topic in your essay. For instance, if the prompt is “Should school uniforms be mandatory?” you would need to choose whether you are for or against the idea and prove your position.
• Arrange your supporting points in emphatic order. Start with the weakest argument and end with the strongest. It will help to persuade the reader and leave a lasting impression.
• Begin each body paragraph with a topic sentence . This way, your readers will understand the point you are trying to make from the very beginning.
• Provide support for your arguments. It is essential to back up your opinions with evidence, examples, and reasoning. You can include statistics, research findings, or expert opinions.
• Stay on topic. It is crucial to remain focused on the main issue or question throughout your paper. Be careful not to go off on a tangent or discuss irrelevant topics that do not directly support your argument.
• Use a diplomatic and professional tone. It means avoiding personal attacks, derogatory language, or overly emotional statements. Instead, present your ideas and respond to opposing viewpoints calmly and respectfully.

Opinion Essay Don’ts

• Don’t use informal language. Avoid using colloquial expressions, slang, jargon, or contractions. Instead, use formal language and non-abbreviated word forms.
• Don’t use emotive vocabulary. Emotive vocabulary includes words that provoke strong emotions or bias, such as “amazing,” “horrible,” or “disgusting.” In an opinion essay, it’s essential to use neutral language.
• Don’t overgeneralize. Avoid making broad statements that assume something is true for everyone or everything. Instead, be specific.
• Don’t use sources without proper referencing. When including information from other sources in your opinion essay, it’s crucial to provide appropriate citations and references. This way, you’ll show that you have done a thorough research and give credit to the original author.
• Don’t rely on personal examples. While personal anecdotes can sometimes strengthen an argument, it’s important not to rely solely on them. Instead, try to use different types of evidence, including statistics, expert opinions, and studies.
• Don’t address your readers. Directly addressing the reader by using “you” is considered informal and should be avoided in an opinion essay. Instead, it’s better to present the arguments and evidence without involving the reader directly.

Do you want to better understand what an opinion essay is? You are welcome to use our opinion essay examples! Reading them will help you gain an insight into this form of academic writing.

Opinion Essay Example #1

The USA is a multinational and multicultural country that is advanced in many areas, including healthcare, medicine, and science in general. However, some of the experiments, such as the syphilis studies discussed in this paper, show that the country is still in the process of overcoming intolerance, racial segregation, and social inequality. Talking about these studies aloud brings the question of research ethics to the forefront. In particular, people who participated in those scientific experiments were misled and misinformed about their health. The research group observed how the participants suffered from the disease’s symptoms until death (Brandt, 24). There are a number of diseases and conditions that have not been researched enough. The experience gained during the studies in Tuskegee and Guatemala should be used to eliminate the possibility of unethical conduct and ensure transparency in all the activities.

Opinion Essay Example #2

To confront cyberbullying effectively, it is vital to know how to identify what it is and spread this awareness among the children who may unwarily become participants. The tendency to raise this issue in the scientific and public spheres has positive dynamics. As there is legal protection for cyberbullying victims in the USA, it is vital to detect harassment cases. For this purpose, parents and teachers should cooperate to create trustworthy relationships so the child can ask for help from adults. That is why a high level of emotional support from parents and peers is necessary to combat bullying before it has occurred.

Opinion Essay Topics

• Your personal view on money and expenditures.
• Analyze your attitude towards obesity as a public health problem.
• Give your opinion on the importance of container deposit legislation.
• What do you think of different belief systems? 
• Discuss your point of view on The Scream by Edvard Munch.
• Describe your opinion on the climate change issue.
• What do you think of the media’s influence on people’s views ?
• Your opinion on the film Argo directed by Affleck .
• Express your opinion on diets and weight loss programs.
• Analyze the impact of war on society and present your opinion.
• Present your opinion on the question of gay marriage.  
• Describe your attitude towards gender stereotypes.
• Do you support the Biblical point of view on divorce?  
• Explain what you think about racism in employment.
• Discuss your attitude to photography. 
• Describe what love is, in your opinion.  
• Give your opinion on genetic engineering.
• Analyze the necessity of vaccination for public school students and present your opinion.
• Express your views on the death penalty.
• Discuss your views on aging changes .
• Do you like the music of a Classical Era?
• Is it ethical to use animals in research, in your opinion?
• Do you think the government should increase the minimum wage?
• Explain whether you agree that soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world.
• Do you think the Internet plays an important role in your life?
• Describe your point of view on the controversial topic of human cloning .
• Present your opinion on tattoos as a form of art.  
• What does the ideal social meeting place look like?
• How do you think bullies should be punished?
• Do you support the opinion that celebrities should be positive role models ?
• Is remote work more convenient than working in an office?  
• Describe your attitude towards social networks .
• What is justice, in your opinion?  
• Give your opinion on American football.  
• What do you think about classical music? 
• Is the government monitoring its citizens justified by safety concerns?  
• Explain what you think about steroid use in competitive sports.
• Discuss the necessity to ban violent computer games .
• Your personal opinion on using cell phones while driving.  
• Do you think the government should interfere with the contents of TV shows ?
• Express your opinion on net neutrality.  
• Describe your views on online dating.  
• Is protectionism necessary for saving a country’s economy? 
• What do you think of a vegan lifestyle?
• Present your attitude towards physician-assisted suicide.
• Do you support the opinion that college athletes should be paid ?
• Your point of view on cigarette smoking and suggestion to ban it.
• Explain whether you think that public colleges and universities should be tuition-free.
• How do you understand responsibility?
• Express your opinion on canceling grades at schools .

💡 Opinion Essay Tips for an A+ Paper

Want to make your essay truly outstanding? Follow the pro tips below:

• Read the question carefully. Take time to fully understand what you are asked to write about. It will help you stay on topic and ensure your essay addresses it effectively.
• Plan your ideas before you start writing. Before beginning the writing process, take time to brainstorm and outline your ideas. Then, evaluate and select the strongest arguments or points to include in your essay.
• Show an understanding of both sides of the argument. Acknowledging different perspectives demonstrates a well-rounded view and can strengthen your position by addressing counterarguments.
• Make use of linking words and phrases. Transitions such as “however,” “in addition,” and “on the other hand” help create a smooth flow between paragraphs and make your essay easier to read. Our transition words generator can assist you with it.
• Don’t introduce any new ideas in the conclusion. In the last paragraph, summarize your main points and restate your thesis without bringing up new information that wasn’t discussed in the body of your essay.

Thank you for reading! Our free tips will help you get through any kind of essay. Still, if you’re stuck with your essay, you can always count on professional writers’ tips and recommendations!

With the help of the tips above, you’ll be able to create the most unbelievable papers in a blink of an eye. Now that you know the secrets of professional writers, try writing your opinion essay!

The final piece of advice : Don’t forget to proofread your paper. Revise your content, grammar, vocabulary, spelling, etc. Make sure that your essay answers the main question. Check if the evidence you provided is accurate and up-to-date.

• Essay Structure | – Harvard College Writing Center
• An opinion essay | Writing – Advanced C1 | British Council
• 5 Tips for Writing an Opinion Essay – ThoughtCo
• Share to Facebook
• Share to LinkedIn
• Share to email

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...

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...

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!

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. That being said: From this article,...

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...

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,...

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...

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...

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, 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...

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...

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...

Thanks a lot. This was helpful

thank you alot this really helped me

I hope this is gonna help me with my opinion essay

Thanks for the help. Really needed it for my opinion essay due tomorrow. -_-

Thanks for the help keep the good work gentlemen

This was great it really helped out.Thanks.

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.

How to Write an Opinion Essay

Home / Blog / How To Write An Opinion Essay: Structure And Examples

Introduction

Opinion essays are a type of academic writing that requires a writer to express their personal opinions about a particular topic or issue. Unlike other forms of academic writing, the main focus of an opinion essay is not on presenting facts, but on expressing personal opinions and providing arguments to support them. In this blog post, we will discuss the structure of an opinion essay and provide some examples to help you write a well-structured and convincing opinion essay.

Structure of an Opinion Essay

An opinion essay should have a clear and well-organized structure, which consists of the following components:

1.  Introduction

2.  Body Paragraphs

3.  Conclusion

Let's take a closer look at each of these components.

The introduction is the first part of your essay , and it should grab the reader's attention and provide them with some background information on the topic you are writing about. In an opinion essay, the introduction should also include a clear thesis statement that summarizes your main argument or opinion.

For example, if you were writing an opinion essay on the topic of climate change, your thesis statement might be something like this:

"Climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate action from individuals, governments, and businesses alike."

Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs of your opinion essay should provide more detailed information and arguments to support your thesis statement. Typically, an opinion essay will have three to five body paragraphs, each focusing on a different argument or piece of evidence.

In each body paragraph, you should start with a clear topic sentence that summarizes the main point of the paragraph. Then, you should provide evidence, examples, or personal experiences to support your argument.

For example, if you were writing an opinion essay on the topic of climate change, one of your body paragraphs might focus on the impact of carbon emissions on the environment. Your topic sentence might be something like this:

"The burning of fossil fuels releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming and other environmental problems."

You could then provide evidence to support this argument, such as statistics on carbon emissions from the burning of fossil fuels, or examples of how global warming is affecting ecosystems around the world.

The conclusion of your essay should summarize your main arguments and restate your thesis statement in a new and compelling way. You should also provide some final thoughts or recommendations for the reader to consider.

For example, if you were writing an opinion essay on the topic of climate change, your conclusion might look something like this:

"In conclusion, climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate action from individuals, governments, and businesses alike. By reducing our carbon footprint and investing in renewable energy sources, we can help mitigate the effects of global warming and protect our planet for future generations."

Examples of Opinion Essays

To help you better understand the structure of an opinion essay, let's take a look at some examples.

Example 1: Should College Athletes Be Paid?

Introduction:

College athletics is a billion-dollar industry, with universities making millions of dollars off the hard work and talent of their student-athletes. In my opinion, college athletes should be paid for their efforts on the field or court.

Body Paragraphs:

College athletes generate millions of dollars for their universities through ticket sales, merchandise, and television deals.

College athletes often do not have the time or resources to hold a part-time job while competing at a high level.

Paying college athletes would help to reduce the financial burden of student-athletes and their families.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, college athletes should be paid for their hard work and talent on the field or court. By compensating these athletes, we can ensure that they are able to pursue their athletic dreams without sacrificing their financial stability or future opportunities.

Example 2: Should Social Media Platforms Be Regulated?

Social media platforms have become an integral part of our daily lives, with billions of people using them to connect with friends, family, and colleagues. However, the increasing use of social media has also led to concerns about their impact on society, including the spread of misinformation and hate speech. In my opinion, social media platforms should be regulated to ensure that they are not used to spread harmful content.

Social media platforms have a responsibility to prevent the spread of harmful content, including hate speech, fake news, and misinformation.

The current self-regulation system has proven to be inadequate, with many social media platforms failing to remove harmful content in a timely manner.

Government regulation could help to ensure that social media platforms are held accountable for the content they host, while also protecting the rights of users.

In conclusion, social media platforms should be regulated to ensure that they are not used to spread harmful content. By holding these platforms accountable for the content they host, we can protect the rights of users while also preventing the spread of hate speech, fake news, and misinformation.

Example 3: Should Recycling Be Mandatory?

The importance of recycling has become increasingly clear in recent years, with growing concerns about the impact of waste on the environment. In my opinion, recycling should be mandatory to ensure that we are doing everything we can to protect our planet.

Recycling is essential for reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and pollutes our environment.

Many people do not recycle voluntarily, and mandatory recycling programs have been shown to increase recycling rates.

Recycling can also have economic benefits, such as creating jobs in the recycling industry and reducing the need for raw materials.

In conclusion, recycling should be mandatory to ensure that we are doing everything we can to protect our planet. By increasing recycling rates, we can reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, protect our environment, and create economic benefits for our communities.

In summary, writing an opinion essay requires a clear and well-organized structure that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction should include a clear thesis statement that summarizes your main argument or opinion. The body paragraphs should provide detailed information and arguments to support your thesis statement, while the conclusion should summarize your main arguments and restate your thesis statement in a new and compelling way. By following this structure and using examples to support your arguments, you can write a convincing and well-structured opinion essay on any topic.

Do you want to share?

You might also like.

Top 100 Persuasive Essay Topics/Ideas for Students

Discursive Essay Topics 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?

Leave a reply, place order.

Want Impressive Essay Help?

Submit your requirements here

  -->Admin -->  Published On Oct 3, 2023 | Updated on Oct 4, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 30, 2023 | Updated on Sep 30, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 26, 2023 | Updated on Sep 26, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 22, 2023 | Updated on Sep 26, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 5, 2023 | Updated on Sep 11, 2023

Assignment Help

Dissertation

Research Paper

  -->Admin -->  Published On Apr 18, 2019 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Sep 22, 2018 | Updated on Sep 12, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Feb 13, 2019 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Apr 5, 2023 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

  -->Admin -->  Published On Jun 22, 2020 | Updated on Aug 10, 2023

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

• Free Essay Examples

Opinion essays: where to start? 

Opinion Essay: How to Structure It?

How to write opinion paper: comprehensive guide 

Tips to write a good opinion essay

Things to avoid in an opinion essay, final thoughts, how to write an opinion essay successfully.

When dealing with it properly, opinion essay can be an essay type you love. Sharing and defending your opinion may seem easy, but there are tricks to consider: structure your thoughts coherently and support your opinion with credible sources, which requires time and effort. 

This article provides all the necessary information on how to write an opinion essay and craft your own opinion essays like a pro. By practicing, improving your skills, acquiring necessary knowledge, and seeking guidance, you can cultivate critical thinking, form well-reasoned arguments, and effectively communicate your viewpoints. 

Opinion essays: where to start? 

What is an opinion essay? An opinion essay is a form of writing where the author expresses their personal views on a specific topic, supported by reasons and examples. It typically begins with an introduction of the topic and the author's viewpoint, followed by body paragraphs that present supporting arguments. The essay concludes with a summary of the points made and a reinforcement of the author's opinion, often encouraging the reader to consider this perspective. Unlike a , your goal is simply to get the reader to see things from your point of view or at least understand where you're coming from. Opinion essay writing has distinct characteristics compared to other essay types — refer to the table below.

It is crucial to establish a solid structure when writing an opinion essay to ensure its value. This will enable your readers to appreciate and benefit from your paper.

Introduction

• Intrigue: Begin with a quotation, an unexpected statistic, a thought-provoking query, or a pertinent story to engage your audience and spark their curiosity to read further.
• Background Information: Provide context to immerse readers in the topic.
• Thesis Statement: Clearly state your opinion or position on the topic, which will serve as the central idea of your essay.

Body Paragraphs

• Personal Connection: Introduce a personal connection or experience that influenced your opinion and relate it to the broader essay topic.
• Emotionally Resonant Language: Use emotionally resonant language to establish a connection with the reader in your opinion paragraph.
• Incorporate Personal Reflection: Integrate personal reflections into the body of the essay and tie them back to the main argument.
• Analogies and Metaphors: Enhance your opinion essay with analogies or metaphors to effectively convey complex ideas and engage the reader.
• Addressing the Why: Delve into the reasons behind your opinion and elucidate the motivations or principles that shape your perspective.

Counterargument and Rebuttal

• Counterargument: Acknowledge and address potential counterarguments to your thesis, demonstrating that you have considered alternative viewpoints and explaining why you disagree.
• Rebuttal: Present counterarguments and provide evidence and reasoning to refute or weaken them, strengthening your overall argument.
• Restate Thesis: In conclusion, when unsure of how to end an opinion essay, it is effective to summarize by restating the thesis in a way that ties everything together.
• Closing Remarks: It is important to provide a final thought, call to action, or implication related to your opinion to leave a lasting impression on the reader.
• Closure: Work on leaving a lasting impression on the reader in your conclusion to solidify your argument.

How to write opinion paper: comprehensive guide 

Let's break down the process of writing an opinion essay into several key steps.

Step 1: Start with the topic.

Writing an opinion paper starts with choosing a topic you feel strongly about or are genuinely interested in. Your passion for the subject will enhance the persuasiveness of your essay. Consider issues that are relevant, timely, and have two or more contrasting viewpoints to create a compelling argument. If you’re struggling to develop a relevant topic, research to get fresh ideas and break free from your informational bubble. 

Step 2: Find relevant information.

Before you begin writing, it is important to gather information to support your opinion. This includes researching sources, expanding your vocabulary, and collecting data, examples, or quotes that strengthen your argument. It is crucial to not only understand your own viewpoint but also consider the perspectives of others. Utilizing different viewpoints can add significant value to your paper.

Step 3: Establish your central argument.

Crafting a concise thesis statement is essential when writing opinion essays. Brainstorm key ideas and select the most relevant one. Consider the significance of your opinion to the audience and aim for a statement that sparks interest and encourages discussion.

Step 4: Organize your thoughts.

One effective technique for outlining an opinion essay is the "Zoom In, Zoom Out" method. Begin with a broad overview of your topic and state your main opinion in the introduction. In the body paragraphs, focus on specific details and supporting evidence for each aspect of your argument. Use transition words and sentences to create a smooth flow between paragraphs and delve into the intricacies to provide a comprehensive understanding.

In the conclusion, zoom out to re-emphasize the broader significance of your opinion and its implications. This technique allows you to balance depth and breadth in presenting your argument, offering a nuanced perspective while ensuring the reader sees the bigger picture.

Step 5: Revise and refine your essay.

After completing the initial draft, take time to revise and refine your essay. Ensure clarity, coherence, and consistency. Persuade the reader by sharing your thoughts and presenting legitimate arguments. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors, or utilizing essay writing assistance.

Articulate your stance clearly in the thesis statement, placed in the introduction.

Use descriptive language to evoke emotions and bring your opinion to life.

Organize your essay logically to enhance reader comprehension.

When crafting an opinion essay, it is important to integrate multimedia elements such as relevant images, videos, or infographics to enhance your points creatively and add a dynamic layer to your essay.

To make your essay more engaging, consider starting with questions or interesting facts that will captivate your readers from the beginning.

Ensure that your writing is clear, coherent, and free of grammar and spelling errors. Refine your essay for clarity and coherence to effectively convey your message.

• Ambiguity: Ensure that your stance is clear and unambiguous. Avoid using vague language that may lead to misinterpretation or confusion.
• Over-reliance on Emotional Appeals: While emotional appeals can be effective, they should be supported by logical arguments and evidence. Provide a solid foundation of facts to reinforce your viewpoint.
• Ignoring Counterarguments: Address and acknowledge opposing viewpoints in your essay. Use evidence and reasoning to demonstrate why your opinion holds more merit.
• Redundancy: Refrain from excessive repetition of ideas or phrases, as it can make your essay monotonous and undermine your argument.
• Unsupported Opinions: Although it is an opinion essay, your opinions should be well-substantiated. Back up your biased views with relevant evidence.
• Neglecting the Introduction and Conclusion: Invest time in crafting a compelling introduction and conclusion. These sections are pivotal in leaving a lasting impact on your readers.
• Introducing New Ideas in the Conclusion: Avoid introducing new concepts or ideas in your essay's conclusion. The conclusion should summarize and reinforce the main points discussed in the body of your essay.

Approach the task of writing an opinion essay with thoughtful consideration and strategic execution. Embrace challenges as opportunities for personal and intellectual growth.

Take breaks when needed to reflect and recharge. Be open to feedback, as constructive criticism can greatly improve the quality of your essay.

Stay open to exploring different perspectives to make the writing experience informative and enjoyable. Consider seeking professional support or feedback if needed.

Crafting an opinion essay demands a blend of confidence, proof, and lucidity. Be faithful to your genuine voice and consider every revision as an opportunity for enhancement.

Related Posts

How to write a good topic sentence.

This in-depth guides will let you know how to write a good topic sentence. See the tips and examples here that can help you craft powerful topic sentences.

How to Write Recommendations in a Research Paper Correctly and Appropriately

How to write recommendations in research paper: find the best examples and tips from professionals at EduBirdie. Write great academic papers with us.

How to Write a Reflection Paper: Techniques and Tips

If writing a reflection paper is hard task for you, we'll tell about techniques and tips of reflection paper. Learn how to structure your paper, effectively convey your thoughts and insights, and engage your readers.

How to Write a Movie Review? (Guide & Tips)

Movie reviews, besides being academic papers are published professionally on websites, in magazines, and newspapers. Read on to learn How to write a movie review like a guru.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Write an Opinion Essay + Examples

A personal opinion essay is an essential part of an educational process. Wherever you study, you will surely come across this kind of work. And if you’re stuck with finding ideas, you have come to the right place. In this article, you will learn all the intricacies of writing and get some good opinion essay topics.

Let’s start!

🤔 What Is an Opinion Essay?

🖊️ how to write an opinion essay.

• 🔗 Linkers and Transition Words

💡 Opinion Essay Ideas

👨‍🎓 opinion essay examples.

An opinion essay is a type of work that involves the expression of one’s own opinion, which has become the product of processing facts and arguments. However, this does not mean there should be no argumentation in the essay. It will be a big plus if you have a couple of examples from your own life or the lives of historical figures, illustrating some facts in your stock. Writing an opinion essay requires the author to clearly state his thoughts on any occasion, without excessive water and long reasoning.

Among other things, it should be remembered that, technically, an opinion essay is a formal type of work that many graduates write at the end of their studies. And this means it has its structure and specific writing rules that must be adhered to. To fully understand the meaning of this type of work, try reading a couple of our free essay samples .

❓ What Are the Characteristics of an Opinion?

The opinion is an entirely subjective position formed due to the influence of certain factors on the mind. It can be characterized as a personal judgment, point of view, and not an exact fact. However, an opinion can be valid only if it is supported by actual knowledge. Otherwise, it can be called more of a guess.

❓ What Is a Supported Opinion Essay?

An essay based on a person’s personal opinion implies a clear statement of the author’s thoughts on a specific topic. However, to show understanding of the problem, one should rely on facts, research, or examples from life. A supported opinion essay is precisely when the author’s opinion is based on objective factors.

🎯 The Purpose of an Opinion Essay

An opinion essay is an excellent tool for teaching students how to express their position correctly. And also to test the depth of their knowledge and thinking. An opinion essay can help you to boost your skills:

• Ability to convey your thoughts . Regardless of the topic of the essay, the teacher wants to see that his wards, leaving the educational institution, will be independent individuals. Therefore, the student needs to show the ability to convey their thoughts on any occasion.
• Competent writing skills . Even in the modern world, writing skills do not lose their relevance. This type of work allows you to form it as efficiently as possible. So if you want to impress your boss, remember to pay attention to grammar and punctuation.
• Topic knowledge . Unfortunately, there is no error-free way to test a student’s ability. However, opinion essays allow the teacher to examine everyone and ensure that the topic has been mastered. This is especially true for subjects such as history and literature.

And, of course, you should understand that the purpose of any text is to be read. So just be creative, and you will have a fantastic essay!

🗝️ Key Features of an Opinion Essay

Like any other type of writing, an opinion essay has characteristics that make it unique. And, of course, to compose a competent text, you need to know about them.

• Focus on the author’s clear and well-reasoned subjective opinion . All proofs, as well as the conclusion, are based on it.
• Logical-based structure . Moreover, it entirely depends on the intentions of the writer.
• Examples and arguments come primarily from personal experience . However, an author may use history and social life quotes and examples of literary heroes to prove their position.
• Speech instruments used . As an author, you will benefit significantly from using a variety of speech constructs . They can help you influence other people. Connecting constructs and clear speech will keep the reader interested and get the most out of the reader.

You just need to get used to all the features to get a little practice. You will succeed!

⚖️ Argumentative, Opinion or Persuasive Essay: the Difference

Before proceeding directly to writing the text, it is worth learning one more important thing. Even towards the end of high school, many people confuse opinion and persuasive essays. These papers look similar.

To help you distinguish the argumentative, opinion, and persuasive essays, we prepare a table of comparisons where you can easily indicate the difference between these papers:

Now let’s move on to which sections the essay consists of and how it should be written. You can safely use this information as a synopsis when completing the assignment.

So, the first one!

📃 Opinion Essay Format

As mentioned earlier, a specific opinion essay structure must be followed. Therefore, before you prepare writing, make up a small outline, which will contain all the components of the text and your ideas for their content. So, how to start an opinion essay?

How Many Paragraphs is an Opinion Essay?

The standard structure consists of four main parts: an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Nevertheless, if it is not specified in the assignment, it can deviate slightly from such a system. It is pretty standard practice to write three or more body paragraphs. Conversely, if one section fully covers the topic, then the need for other explanations may disappear.

Opinion Essay Introduction

Of course, any text starts with a short opening. This section should summarize the essence of the problem you are writing about. The main task of the introduction is to entice the audience and familiarize them with the paper’s main topic. Therefore, by the first paragraph, a person will build an impression of your talents.

Moreover, remember that the introduction should be catchy. How to write a hook for an opinion essay? In simple words, this is a proposal that should interest the reader and draw his attention. It should be subject-related and relatively accurate. All you have to do is show the reader that the topic of the essay will be critical and even touch it.

Let’s take a look at some opinion essay introduction examples from our authors, in which you can see all the listed components:

• As Ronald Reagan said in one of his speeches, everyone who advocates abortion has been born. The topic of abortion is very controversial, and people still cannot come to a standard solution. That is why, in this abortion opinion essay, I will try to sort out my thoughts and answer whether abortion is a panacea or a hidden evil.
• Global warming is a global problem. As Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez aptly put it, we cannot sit back while our planet is on fire. But can one person influence the fate of all humanity? I think so, and in this essay, I will try to explain my position

Of course, these examples are conditional, and you can change them as you need to achieve a quality result.

Opinion Essay: Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the final sentence of an introduction . It is an integral part of the entire text. And if your essay will be evaluated, then the absence of the thesis will significantly underestimate the point. So how do you write the last sentence competently so that the reader will like it?

At its core, in the thesis, you should summarize everything that you indicated in the introduction and, in a nutshell, make it clear what will be discussed. You are expected to state your position on the issue clearly. And then, the entire text should be directed precisely to reinforce your words.

For example, take this essay topic: “ Is globalization a positive phenomenon? ” In this case, a good thesis would be “ In my opinion, globalization has many more advantages than disadvantages. ”

See how one small phrase can dramatically improve your overall performance score. Therefore, pay due attention to it!

Opinion Essay: Body Paragraphs

Finally, you come to the main body of your essay, namely the argumentation. The body paragraphs of an opinion essay are aimed at correctly explaining the author’s position to the audience. Here you are expected to have good arguments and examples that will become your assistants in proving your case.

Body paragraphs have two parts: an argument and an example supporting what you said. For example, you might say that the lack of responsibility for actions leads to the corruption of the mind and soul. And as an explanation to these words, briefly support your statement with the story of the protagonist of the novel by Jack London, “The Picture of Dorian Gray.”

Moreover, no one limits the number of these same arguments, and often it depends on the maximum volume of the text itself. The standard case is two good arguments, supported by examples from life or literature. Then you can be sure that the reader will correctly understand your idea.

🔗 Linkers and Transitional Words for Opinion Essay

Connecting structures are an invisible companion for the reader throughout the entire essay. They are also called linkers or transitional words . At their core, these two concepts mean the exact phrases. Their task is to make the text more readable and smoothly translate the reader from one idea to another. Moreover, all these constructions are divided into subgroups depending on their purpose. Let’s take a look at a couple of examples of good transition words for an opinion essay:

• In my opinion…
• It is clear that…, etc.
• It is widely known that…
• It is a well-known fact that…
• Research has shown that…
• There are definitely…
• It is a fact that…, etc.

There are also brilliant linkers for opinion essays on these themes:

• In spite of…
• However, etc.
• To conclude…
• In conclusion…, etc.

Using these constructions, you will significantly increase the consistency of your text and help the reader to perceive it better.

Now that you have a basic understanding of writing an essay, let’s look at some good opinion essay topics. Feel free to use them for your creative work and get good points.

💡 30 Opinion Essay Prompts

So, our team has selected 30 excellent opinion essay topics for you. Look for what resonates in your soul and get to work!

• Opinion essay: success in life depends on being successful at school. Many of us were assured that it is impossible to reach heights without a good performance at school. What do you think about it?
• Mobile phone addiction is the scourge of the 21st century. Give arguments from your life and tell about personal experiences.
• Opinion essay about GMO : pros and cons. For many, this topic remains a secret. It’s time to dispel all inaccuracies and find out the whole truth.
• Should university study be free? What is your position?
• Opinion essay about technologies in our life . What impact do they have?
• Compulsory vaccination : pros and cons. If you have any personal experience with this topic, feel free to share it.
• Opinion on abortion essay: do people have the right to choose?
• US neutrality in World War II : what would have gone differently?
• Opinion essay about video games. Is it an addiction or just leisure ? What do you think?
• Does the motivation from famous people have an effect, or is it a dummy? Do you have an opinion on this matter?
• Essay opinion on junk food : how dangerous it is. Everyone was warned that junk food and junk food kill the body, but maybe it’s all about the quantity?
• Parenting is the foundation of a child’s success. Do you think that the parents are responsible for the future education and work of their child?
• Opinion essay: buy nothing day or Black Friday sales. What do you choose and why?
• The advantages of living in a metropolis and a small town . Which would you choose?
• Essay: opinion about global warming . Do you think this is a real threat, or is it just a panic among people?
• Homemade food or dining out in restaurants? What do you and your family prefer?
• Social media impact opinion essay. Billions of people spend their time on social media. What consequences can this have for humanity?
• Consequences of increasing the budget for road construction. How will this affect our cities?
• Opinion essay: television promotes violence through broadcasting abusive behavior. Do you agree with this thesis?
• Humanity is destroying the ecosystem and making the earth uninhabitable. What arguments can be for and against?
• Opinion essay about homework : is this system outdated? How do you feel about this from a student’s point of view?
• Artists and internet bloggers make vast amounts of money. Do you support this?
• Opinion essay about racism in modern life. What are the dangers of this behavior? Tell us about your personal experience or give an example from the community’s life.
• Some people dream of changing their place of residence. Do you think that moving to another country will help you in self-realization?
• The best profession to choose opinion essay. What are your thoughts? Where would you like to be after finishing your studies?
• People prefer online communication over live communication. How do you feel about this trend?
• Opinion essay about same-sex marriages. For some people, this is unacceptable. What do you think about it?
• How can movies and television affect human behavior ? Do you think certain viewing films should be limited for people with a weak mentality?
• Opinion essay about immigration . Should the state provide maximum assistance to everyone who wants to get into it?
• Should people be allowed to carry weapons with them? What restrictions can be used, in your opinion?

These themes are ideal for getting good results.

Now let’s look at some small sample essays from our authors. You can see all the listed components and highlight some interesting ideas for yourself!

Climate change opinion essay, truth or fiction? (250 words)

Climate change has been heading the news for decades. Almost everyone is puzzled by this problem in the modern world, but is there any reason to believe that this is just exaggerated media panic? I think not, and in this essay, I will try to explain my position. The first thing worth paying attention to is the changes that we can see every day. But nature is changing, and this is noticeable with the naked eye. For example, you can look at how the temperature regime has changed over the past decades. In my region, real winter began in the last days of November. Then the temperature dropped to zero, and there was already snow outside the window. However, I would be thrilled to see snowfall this year, at least at Christmas. This raises questions about the veracity of statements from the media and various organizations. You should also look at the publicly available facts. International organizations conduct ongoing research, which clearly shows that the climate is changing, and it is difficult to fix it. One of the most respected teams, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), regularly issues climate change reports. And in them, you can see what reasons for this and what it can lead to. This is excellent and detailed work that deserves everyone’s attention. In summary, we can say that climate change can be seen with the naked eye. This problem affects all people on the planet, and to ignore it is to expose yourself to great danger. Humanity is destroying our world, and can we deny it?

Opinion on death penalty essay, is it moral? (300 words)

Many international treaties have long banned the death penalty, but this does not prevent several countries from regularly using it against criminals. I think this is a terrible practice that has no place in our civilized world. The argument for this may be the simple idea that every creature has a right to life. And this right cannot be taken away under any condition because you can take a dangerous path by creating an incident. One Russian scientist Andrei Sakharov spoke very accurately about this: “The existence of the institution of the death penalty dehumanizes society. I spoke out and am opposed to the death penalty also because this punishment provides for the presence of a constantly terrible apparatus of executors, the whole institution of the death penalty ”. I fully support his words because there is no reason not to kill the second after killing once. It should also be understood that people sentenced to death are not always, in fact, guilty. There is a miscarriage of justice, and no one can be insured against it. The most resonant was the story from 1949. Timothy Evans was hanged on charges of murdering his pregnant wife and two-year-old daughter. Four years later, it wasn’t until serial killer John Christie, who had testified in court against Evans, confessed to the murder. He was hanged, and Timothy Evans was posthumously rehabilitated. The Timothy Evans case is one of the most remarkable stories in the death penalty dispute. To summarize, I can say that there are many reasons for the absolute ban on the death penalty in the world. This is not only inhuman but can lead to unnecessary deaths. Fighting crime in this way, the people who defend the law themselves break it.

Opinion essay on smoking: should the state intervene? (300 words)

Smoking is a global problem. Experts predict that in the coming decades, the number of smokers will reach one billion people worldwide. In my opinion, governments should take strict measures to limit nicotine use among the population. Firstly, smoking poses enormous hardships for addicts. All this can increase the number of cancer patients and people suffering from heart and lung diseases. At the same time, it can be tough to give up cigarettes on your own. We all understand that nicotine in quantities that a person receives from cigarettes is not characteristic of the body. Therefore, our body can react in an extraordinary way to its appearance. An example may well be my family, suffering from heart problems for several generations. All men, from my great-grandfather to my father, visit doctors all the time. And they all have one reason – excessive smoking. At the same time, they cannot quit smoking on their own due to a banal addiction. Secondly, smokers can damage the health of other people nearby. It is a well-known fact that secondhand smoke is no less harmful than the regular use of nicotine. And unfortunately, non-smokers, in most cases, have no choice. You can see it yourself in everyday life. People who are forced to breathe smoke while sitting at bus stops or in public places simply cannot do anything about it. The only way to help them is to introduce more and more restrictions from the state. So, in conclusion, we can say that smoking is not only a problem for the person addicted to cigarettes. Everyone suffers from this, from his family to strangers around him. Unfortunately, these difficulties cannot be resolved on their own. But is the state and society doing enough to help people with addiction?

📎 References

• Basic Essay Structure. Port. Ac
• An opinion essay. British Council
• How to Write an Opinion Based Essay. UCT Language Centre
• Recognizing Transitions. MPC.Edu
• Writing Your Paper: Transitions. EWU.Edu
• Conclusion – How to write an essay. University of Newcastle
• Writing a thesis statement. IELTS Buddy
• CCSS Argument versus Opinion Writing
• Essay Structure. Harvard College Writing Centre