An argumentative essay is a type of essay that presents a clear and well-reasoned argument in favor of a particular perspective or position. In order to effectively persuade readers to adopt a particular viewpoint, an argumentative essay must present evidence and reasoning to support the argument. This evidence can come in the form of quotations, statistics, and other factual information, and it is important to use proper citation to give credit to the sources of this information.
There are several reasons why citations are important in an argumentative essay. First and foremost, citations help to establish the credibility of the argument. By including citations, the writer is demonstrating that they have done their research and are basing their argument on reliable sources. This helps to increase the reader's confidence in the argument, as it shows that the writer has taken the time to thoroughly investigate the topic and is presenting well-supported evidence.
Citations are also important because they help to support the writer's argument. By including specific quotations or statistics, the writer can provide concrete examples to back up their points. This can be particularly effective in convincing readers who may be skeptical of the argument. By presenting factual evidence, the writer can more effectively persuade readers to adopt their perspective.
Furthermore, citations help to protect the writer's own credibility. By properly citing sources, the writer is avoiding the risk of plagiarism, which can damage their reputation and credibility. Plagiarism occurs when a writer uses someone else's work or ideas without proper attribution, and it is considered a serious ethical breach in academic writing. By properly citing sources, the writer is demonstrating their commitment to ethical writing practices and their respect for the work of others.
In conclusion, citations are an important aspect of argumentative essay writing. They help to establish the credibility of the argument, support the writer's points, and protect the writer's own credibility. It is important for writers to carefully consider their sources and use proper citation to give credit to the original authors and to avoid plagiarism.
