How to Write a Discursive Essay

What Is a Discursive Essay?

A discursive essay is a style of academic writing that explores a topic in a balanced and thoughtful way. Unlike a persuasive essay, it doesn’t force the reader to take a side. Instead, it offers balanced arguments in essays so readers can form their own opinions.

In simple terms, discursive essays help students think critically and write clearly. These essays are common in high school and university courses across Australia and other English-speaking regions.

Why Is Discursive Essay Writing Important?

Students often ask, “Why do we write these essays?” The answer is simple.

• They improve your critical thinking in essays
• They teach you how to present balanced views
• They build strong academic writing styles
• They help in real-life debates and reports

Discursive writing pushes you to see both sides of a topic — a valuable skill in school, work, and daily life.

Types of Discursive Essays

There are different types of discursive essays, each with its own approach. Let’s break them down.

For and Against Essays

These essays show both sides of a topic — for and against. They are common in exams and school tasks. You write one paragraph to support the idea and another to oppose it. In the end, you share your opinion (or not).

Example Topic:
“Should mobile phones be banned in schools?”

This type of essay fits well for practicing balanced arguments in essays.

Opinion Essays

These focus on your personal view, but they still include other points. You explain your opinion, back it with evidence, and mention other views for balance.

Example Topic:
“Do you think homework should be optional for teenagers?”

Solution-Based Discursive Essays

These essays look at problems and offer fair solutions. You may still show both sides, but the focus is on fixing an issue.

Example Topic:
“How can schools deal with online bullying effectively?”

Each of these types of discursive essays allows students to grow as writers and thinkers.

Features of a Discursive Essay

To write a strong essay, you must first understand its key parts.

• A clear essay introduction and conclusion
• Formal tone and structure
• Logical flow of ideas
• Use of linking words for discursive essays
• Balanced approach to the topic
• Evidence from reliable sources

These features help you stand out in exams and build strong writing habits.

Discursive Essay Structure: What You Must Include

Many students get confused about the layout. Let’s simplify the standard discursive essay structure step by step.

1. Introduction

Start with a short and clear intro. Include:

• A brief overview of the topic
• A hook or question to grab interest
• Mention of both sides or issues involved

Avoid showing your opinion right away. Keep it neutral.

Example:
“Social media has changed how we communicate. While it offers new ways to connect, it also raises concerns about mental health and privacy.”

2. Main Body Paragraphs

This is where you present your arguments. Each paragraph should focus on one point.

Use these tips:

• Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence
• Use facts, quotes, and logic to support each side
• Keep your tone formal and fair
• Use linking words for discursive essays like “however,” “on the other hand,” “in contrast,” “similarly,” and “moreover”

Make sure each point flows into the next smoothly.

3. Conclusion

In the essay introduction and conclusion, your role is to guide the reader. In your closing paragraph:

• Summarise both sides
• Avoid repeating all points
• Give your final view (optional for exams)

Example:
“While social media helps us stay connected, the risks tied to privacy and addiction cannot be ignored. A balanced approach is key.”

Argumentative vs Discursive Essay: What’s the Difference?

This is a common point of confusion. Though similar in style, these two are not the same.

So, persuasive vs discursive essays are not interchangeable. If your task is discursive, avoid sounding forceful.

Academic Writing Styles in Discursive Essays

At AllAssignmentHelp.org, we advise students to follow clear and formal styles. A proper formal essay writing tone means:

• No slang or contractions
• Full sentences
• Clear structure
• Objective view
• Evidence over emotion

Still, your writing should sound like a real person — not a robot. Use natural expressions and flow.

How to Write a Discursive Essay: Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s break down the writing process into simple steps.

Step 1 – Understand the Topic

Take time to read the prompt. Is it asking for your view, solutions, or both sides?

Step 2 – Research Both Sides

Look for facts, stats, expert opinions. Use trusted sources like:

• Educational sites
• News platforms
• Peer-reviewed journals

Stay away from personal blogs unless they’re part of a case study.

Step 3 – Plan Your Points

Write 3–4 strong ideas for each side. Create a mind map or bullet list.

Step 4 – Write the Draft

Follow the standard discursive essay format for exams. Start with a neutral intro, develop your body paragraphs, then end with a short conclusion.

Step 5 – Edit and Check

Never submit your first draft. Look for:

• Grammar mistakes
• Repeated words
• Clarity
• Flow
• Use of linking words for discursive essays

Also check word count and time (for timed tasks).

Common Mistakes in Discursive Essays

Avoid these pitfalls to keep your essay clean and effective:

• Giving only one side of the argument
• Using informal or chatty tone
• Repeating the same point
• Jumping between ideas
• Forgetting to cite sources
• Writing an unclear conclusion

Many students confuse argumentative vs discursive essay, leading to incorrect formats. Stick to the discursive essay writing style.

Writing Tips for Discursive Essays

To improve your score and confidence, keep these tips in mind:

• Always plan before writing
• Avoid emotional language
• Use facts over feelings
• Think of the reader
• Keep transitions smooth
• Read discursive essay examples for students online
• Practise with past topics

These writing tips for discursive essays help you build habits that pay off in both school and university life.

Benefits of Discursive Writing for Students

Learning to write discursive essays builds key skills:

• Critical thinking
• Argument building
• Fair analysis
• Clear writing
• Exam readiness

These are the core benefits of discursive writing for students. Whether you’re aiming for top grades or just want to write better, these skills stay with you.

Discursive Essay Topics for Practice

Not sure where to begin? Try these discursive essay topics for practice:

1. Should homework be banned in schools?
2. Is online learning better than classroom learning?
3. Should sports be compulsory in school?
4. Do exams help measure real knowledge?
5. Should children have access to social media?

Write one topic each week to build skill and speed.

Discursive Essay Examples for Students

Here’s a short example using the topic: “Should school uniforms be mandatory?”

Introduction:
Some believe uniforms create unity. Others think they limit freedom. This essay looks at both views.

Body Paragraphs:
Pro: Uniforms reduce peer pressure and focus on studies.
Con: They may limit self-expression and comfort.
Extra Point: Some parents also find them costly.

Conclusion:
Uniforms may help in discipline, but personal style also matters. A middle ground may work best.

Reading more discursive essay examples for students like this will help you learn style, tone, and format.

Discursive Essay Format for Exams

Many Australian schools test students with timed essay writing. Follow this format:

• Time: 40 minutes (average)
• Structure: Introduction – 3 Body Paragraphs – Conclusion
• Word count: 250–350 words (check your exam board)
• Planning time: 5 minutes
• Review time: 5 minutes

Practise under exam-like conditions to gain confidence.

Why Students Trust AllAssignmentHelp.org for Essay Help

At AllAssignmentHelp.org, we help students with all forms of academic writing — including discursive essay writing.

Here’s why students across Australia choose us:

• We follow strict academic standards
• Our work is plagiarism-free and private
• All essays are custom-written by real experts
• We help students understand the topic, not just finish the work
• We follow Australian university formats and referencing styles
• Our support team is always available to assist

We also offer guides and blogs to help you learn. If you ever need help with planning, drafting, or editing your discursive essay, we’re here.

Final Thoughts: Mastering the Discursive Essay

Writing a discursive essay is not hard — it just needs practice, structure, and clarity.

To recap:

• Know your essay type
• Plan your points
• Keep a balanced tone
• Use formal essay writing rules
• Avoid common errors
• Practise with discursive essay topics for practice

Use real-life examples, facts, and logic. Don’t just write — think, explore, and engage.

Whether you’re a high school student or a university learner, strong discursive writing opens doors to better grades, clearer thinking, and deeper learning.

If you need help, AllAssignmentHelp.org is ready to guide you — with expert-written resources, private essay support, and stress-free learning.

Read more: How to Write a Professional Development Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start a discursive essay?

Start with a short and clear intro. Tell the reader what the topic is. Use a simple fact or question to grab attention. Do not take sides in the beginning. Keep it fair and formal. At AllAssignmentHelp.org, we always say — plan your start before you write.

What makes a discursive essay different from a persuasive one?

A discursive essay shows both sides of a topic. A persuasive essay only supports one side. In discursive writing, you explain each view in a fair way. You don’t try to change the reader’s mind. This helps you build clear and strong thinking.

Can someone help me write my discursive essay?

Yes, we can help. At AllAssignmentHelp.org, our team helps students write essays. We can guide you step by step — from choosing a topic to fixing your final draft. Every essay is safe, clear, and written by experts.