Presenting Arguments

Learn to state a claim clearly, support it with a reason, evidence or an example, and explain how that support connects to the conclusion in formal English writing.

Published October 3, 2026

Presenting and supporting a position

A position is a claim you defend

A position, claim or thesis answers the question What exactly am I asserting? It should be specific enough for a reader to agree or disagree. A topic such as remote work is not yet a position; Hybrid work should remain available for suitable roles expresses a claim.

I would argue that… and It can be argued that… help identify a claim and present it in a measured way. They do not automatically make an opinion true: the reader still needs support for the position.

How to build it

I would argue that / It can be argued that + a complete clause stating the claim

clause: A construction with a verb, often with its own subject: when I arrived. A non-finite clause may leave the subject unspoken: to get home.

I would argue that public libraries remain essential community services.

The opening explicitly marks a position, while the that-clause states the claim that needs to be supported.

It can be argued that flexible start times improve access to education.

The impersonal opening shifts attention from the author to the argument. This is a stylistic choice, not a guarantee of objectivity.

The frame One key argument in favour of…

One key argument in favour of + noun/-ing + is + noun phrase or that-clause identifies one strong reason for a proposal. In favour requires the preposition of, followed by a noun, gerund or pronoun phrase.

This frame introduces a reason why the position may be sound. A reason is not necessarily evidence: a claim about an advantage may still need data, observations or a source.

How to build it

One key argument in favour of + noun or -ing form + is + noun phrase or that-clause

V-ing / -ing: The verb form ending in -ing: working, going. Its role depends on the construction.
NP / noun phrase: A noun phrase: a noun with its dependent words, such as the new student; the pattern treats it as one group of words.
noun: A word naming a person, thing or idea: student, book, happiness.
clause: A construction with a verb, often with its own subject: when I arrived. A non-finite clause may leave the subject unspoken: to get home.

One key argument in favour of expanding cycle lanes is that they can make short journeys safer.

Of is followed by expanding; is is followed by a that-clause stating the reason.

One key argument in favour of the proposal is its relatively low cost.

A noun phrase can follow is; a that-clause is not compulsory.

Reasons, evidence, examples and the logical link

A reason explains why a position is sound. Evidence supplies verifiable support: data, observations or a properly identified source. An example illustrates a particular case, which does not always prove a general claim on its own. Numbers in this lesson’s examples are hypothetical and illustrate argument structure only.

A warrant, or link, explains exactly how the evidence supports the position. Useful frames include This evidence supports the view that…; This matters because…; and These findings suggest that…. Without this link, readers may see the data but not understand their relevance.

How to build it

position → reason → evidence or example → explanation of the connection

A council survey found that 64% of respondents would use later buses. This evidence supports the view that extended services would meet an existing need.

The first sentence supplies data; the second explains how they relate to the position.

For example, one local school cut food waste after introducing smaller portions.

This is a specific illustration. It does not by itself prove that every school would obtain the same result.

Formal register without false prohibitions

I think, because and for example are grammatical and natural. I think often suits conversation and less formal writing; because directly introduces a reason; for example marks an illustration. They do not become errors merely because more academic alternatives exist.

In a formal task, I would argue that… may signal a defended position more precisely, while evidence introduced through a named source may make its basis clearer. Obviously, everyone knows and always can sound unjustifiably categorical. A grammatical sentence using them should be assessed for its tone or weaker justification, rather than labelled a grammar error.

I think the plan could work.

A grammatical, natural sentence. In a formal essay, the writer may choose a more precise way to introduce the position.

I would argue that the plan merits a six-month trial because the projected cost is limited.

The opening marks the position, and the because-clause supplies a relevant reason. Because is entirely appropriate here.

Sufficient evidence and limits on generalization

The strength of the wording should match the support. A small local survey may justify a cautious conclusion about that group, but not a universal claim about everyone. With limited data, use may, could, appears to or suggests, and qualifications such as in this sample or in similar contexts.

Weak or irrelevant evidence does not necessarily create a grammatical error; it creates a problem in the argument. When checking your work, ask separately whether the evidence addresses the exact claim, whether it supports the scope of the conclusion, and whether the logical connection is explained.

In this survey, 58% of participants preferred a later deadline, suggesting that the change may benefit this group.

In this survey and may limit the conclusion to match the scope of the evidence.

One successful pilot illustrates the proposal’s potential, but broader evidence is needed before a national claim can be made.

The example serves as an illustration, not automatic proof of a universal effect.

Paragraph coherence

Readers can follow an argument more easily when the position appears near the start of a unit of meaning and the following sentences develop that same position. The reason, evidence and warrant should share key concepts or use clear pronoun references.

Position → reason → evidence → warrant is a useful checking plan, not the only correct template for every paragraph. Evidence may precede the claim, several reasons may occupy separate paragraphs, and a short text may combine stages.

I would argue that the city should retain weekend library hours. One reason is that many residents work during the week. Attendance records show that Saturday visits account for a third of weekly use. These figures indicate that weekend access serves a substantial group.

Each sentence develops the same position, and the final sentence interprets the data’s relevance.

The pilot reduced waiting times by 12%. On this basis, it can be argued that a wider trial is justified.

Here the evidence precedes the position. On this basis still makes the logical progression clear.

Applying it in your own writing and speaking

Before answering, formulate one specific position. Then choose at least one reason, relevant support and a sentence explaining the connection. If the evidence is limited, narrow the conclusion rather than making the tone stronger.

In discussion, you can do this more briefly: state the position, reason and supporting basis, then explain their connection. Explicitly labelled invented data are acceptable in an imaginary learning situation. In a real report or argument, use verified data and identify the source.

I would argue that meeting agendas should be shared in advance. This would allow participants to prepare, and our last three teams reported shorter meetings after adopting the practice.

The position, reason and local observation provide compact support in speech or writing.

These examples do not prove that the policy will work everywhere, but they suggest that a larger trial is worth considering.

The speaker acknowledges the limits of the evidence while still drawing a practical conclusion.

Common mistakes

Incorrect:I would argue that flexible schedules improves staff retention.

Correct:I would argue that flexible schedules improve staff retention.

The subject flexible schedules is plural, so use improve without -s.

Incorrect:One key argument in favour public childcare is wider access to work.

Correct:One key argument in favour of public childcare is wider access to work.

Do not omit of from the fixed prepositional phrase in favour of.

Incorrect:The survey of 500 residents show strong support for the change.

Correct:The survey of 500 residents shows strong support for the change.

The head of the subject, survey, is singular. Residents belongs to a prepositional phrase and does not control verb agreement.

Incorrect:These findings suggests that a longer trial is justified.

Correct:These findings suggest that a longer trial is justified.

The subject findings is plural, so use suggest.

Sources

Presenting an opposing view

What presenting an opposing view means

Presenting an opposing view means fairly showing readers a position that differs from yours or challenges it. The key is not the word however, but a clear boundary between another person's claim and your own position.

You can simply identify the opposing view when the task asks for an overview of a debate. In persuasive writing, a response often follows, but a rebuttal is not a grammatically required second half of every sentence of this kind.

How to build it

source or group + reporting verb + (that) + the content of the position

verb / V: A word for an action or state, such as work or be. The pattern determines its form.

Some researchers argue that shorter meetings can reduce careful discussion.

Some researchers argue that clearly attributes the claim to another group; the writer has not yet given a response.

My view is that shorter meetings usually improve focus.

This states the writer's own position rather than presenting an opposing view.

Active attribution: who holds the view?

Frames such as Some people argue that, Critics point out that, and Opponents of the proposal claim that identify the people holding a position. Be as specific as the facts allow: if the source is known, a particular organisation or writer is better than vague some people.

Do not invent a real source simply to fit a formal frame. In an imagined learning scenario, a hypothetical group is acceptable. In a real text, name the known source or present a possible objection as your own hypothesis: One possible objection is that….

How to build it

Critics of + noun phrase + argue / point out / claim + (that) + complete clause

NP / noun phrase: A noun phrase: a noun with its dependent words, such as the new student; the pattern treats it as one group of words.
noun: A word naming a person, thing or idea: student, book, happiness.
clause: A construction with a verb, often with its own subject: when I arrived. A non-finite clause may leave the subject unspoken: to get home.

Critics of the scheme point out that it excludes night-shift workers.

Critics of the scheme identifies the group precisely, and point out that introduces the content of its observation.

According to the tenants' association, the proposed deposit is too high.

According to appropriately reports the named source's position without implying the writer's agreement.

Impersonal frames and distance

It is sometimes claimed that and It has been suggested that do not name a particular speaker. The passive creates distance and focuses on the claim itself. It is useful when the source is genuinely general or already known from context.

An impersonal frame is not evidence and does not replace a citation when one is required. It also does not make a doubtful generalisation accurate: words such as sometimes, may, or in some cases can be important parts of the meaning.

How to build it

It + passive reporting verb + (that) + complete clause

verb / V: A word for an action or state, such as work or be. The pattern determines its form.
clause: A construction with a verb, often with its own subject: when I arrived. A non-finite clause may leave the subject unspoken: to get home.

It is sometimes claimed that remote assessment is less reliable.

Sometimes limits how broadly the claim is attributed, while the passive frame shows that it is not a direct assertion by the writer.

It has been suggested that the survey underrepresents rural residents.

The Present Perfect Passive has been suggested combines grammatically with a that-clause.

Admittedly: a concession, not attribution to an opponent

Admittedly introduces a fact or weakness the writer is willing to acknowledge. It is a concession: the writer accepts the point as true. The word alone does not identify who raised the argument, so it is not always interchangeable with Some critics argue that.

Admittedly is usually followed by a full clause. But, however, or nevertheless can follow if the writer wants to limit the concession's significance. A standalone sentence with Admittedly is also possible when a subsequent response is outside the current task.

How to build it

Admittedly, + complete clause. If needed: However / Nevertheless, + response.

clause: A construction with a verb, often with its own subject: when I arrived. A non-finite clause may leave the subject unspoken: to get home.

Admittedly, the transition will require additional training.

The writer acknowledges a real limitation; no source of another position is named.

Admittedly, the sample is small. Nevertheless, the pattern appears in all four regions.

The second sentence does not erase the concession. It explains why the writer still considers the finding worth attention.

Accuracy, neutrality, and a fair version of the argument

A fair presentation preserves the original position's scope, conditions, and modality. If a source says may disadvantage some users, do not turn it into will harm everyone. That substitution creates a logical and ethical problem even if the sentence is grammatical.

Argue usually presents a reasoned position neutrally. Claim can create more distance and sometimes suggest that a statement remains unproven, so do not mechanically substitute it for every reporting verb. Point out presents an observation as a significant detail the reader should consider.

The disability group warns that the app may be difficult for some screen-reader users.

May, some, and the specific source preserve the original position's limits.

Opponents claim that the measure lacks public support.

Claim is appropriate when the writer wants to distance themselves from the assertion; argue often suits a more neutral report.

When and how to add a response

If the purpose is to respond to an opposing view as well as present it, first report the view fairly, then signal the change of voice. However, nevertheless, even so, or but can introduce the response, but their syntax and punctuation differ.

The response must address the argument actually presented. An unrelated new fact after however does not become a rebuttal. Likewise, the absence of a response does not automatically imply agreement: a literature review or discussion record may deliberately only document positions.

Some residents argue that the restriction will reduce trade; however, sales rose during the six-month pilot.

However introduces relevant evidence responding to the specific concern.

Critics point out that the new route is longer for two villages.

This is a complete presentation of an opposing view without a rebuttal. It is appropriate when the task asks only for the concern to be stated.

Register and related discourse functions

I disagree, but and People say are grammatical ways to conduct a conversation. They may fail to meet an explicit formal-essay requirement, but that is a difference in register or learning target, not an automatic grammatical error.

On the other hand signals contrast but does not necessarily attribute a view to another side. A balanced evaluation weighs an option's advantages and disadvantages; an opposing view presents another participant's position. Admittedly expresses the writer's concession. These functions can occur together but are not identical.

I see your point, but the deadline cannot be moved.

A natural conversational response; a formal paragraph may require more explicit attribution.

On the other hand, the larger office has lower energy costs.

This contrasts aspects of the choice, but without a source it does not present someone else's position.

Using the approach in your own writing and speech

Before writing, ask four questions: whose position is this, what exactly does it claim, which limits must be preserved, and does the task require your response? Then choose a frame that performs that function honestly.

Your own paragraph need not follow one fixed template. You can name the source, ask a clarifying question, acknowledge a strong point, or respond with evidence. Skilled writing lets readers always distinguish another person's position from yours and understand their relationship.

The staff survey notes that flexible hours can complicate shift coverage. This concern deserves attention, although the same survey reports higher retention.

The writer names the source accurately, acknowledges the argument's importance, and responds with data without dismissiveness.

Common mistakes

Incorrect:Some employees argues that the monitoring system invades privacy.

Correct:Some employees argue that the monitoring system invades privacy.

The subject some employees is plural, so use argue without -s.

Incorrect:Critics point that the plan ignores night-shift workers.

Correct:Critics point out that the plan ignores night-shift workers.

The meaning of drawing attention to a point requires the phrasal verb point out. Omitting out breaks the construction here.

Incorrect:It has suggested that the survey is too narrow.

Correct:It has been suggested that the survey is too narrow.

The impersonal report requires the passive form has been suggested.

Incorrect:Opponents of the proposal claims that it is too expensive.

Correct:Opponents of the proposal claim that it is too expensive.

The head of the subject, opponents, is plural, so use claim without -s.

Incorrect:Admittedly that the timetable is tight.

Correct:Admittedly, the timetable is tight.

Admittedly signals a concession here and introduces a complete clause without an additional that.

Sources

Formulating conclusions and summaries

A conclusion closes a discussion rather than opening it

At the end of an essay, arguments have usually been presented before the conclusion is stated. However, On balance can also open a sentence or paragraph with an overall assessment that the writer explains afterwards. It signals a considered judgement, not a grammatical requirement always to follow a list of evidence.

A conclusion draws on evidence presented earlier. A reader cannot check a new fact or figure introduced at the end against the preceding text, so new evidence belongs in the body. The conclusion can state what follows from the material, but should not introduce new grounds for it.

Scooters cut short car journeys, yet they clutter pavements. On balance, a licensed scheme with fixed parking zones is the sensible option.

The benefit and drawback are considered first, and the frame then introduces the closing judgement.

The canteen menu is cheaper than packed lunches, and pupils eat more vegetables. Taking everything into account, the change has been a success.

The judgement rests on the two stated facts and adds nothing new.

Frames for a balanced judgement

On balance, all things considered, taking everything into account and weighing everything up introduce an overall assessment based on different considerations. On the whole means generally and does not necessarily imply an explicit list of pros and cons. At the beginning of a sentence, these expressions are usually followed by a comma.

The nuances are small. On balance emphasises that one side outweighs the other; All things considered and Taking everything into account emphasise that many factors have been considered; On the whole sounds a little lighter and suits a general assessment without a sharp decision. In many written contexts, they can replace one another.

How to build it

concluding expression, + subject + predicate stating the conclusion

subject / S: The grammatical subject: who or what the clause is about; the verb agrees with it. In The book was written, the book is the subject, although someone else does the action.

Opening hours would be longer, but staffing costs would rise. On balance, the extra hours are justified.

The frame introduces a judgement after contrasting considerations.

All things considered, a shared parking permit is fairer than a per-vehicle fee.

The frame emphasises that several factors have been considered.

On the whole, the experiment gave encouraging results.

A lighter frame for an overall assessment.

Summary frames: restating rather than evaluating

In conclusion, To conclude, To sum up, In summary, In sum, To summarise (American To summarize) and Overall briefly return the reader to what has been said. A summary may simply repeat the main points without evaluating them; a judgement decides what follows from them. The two often combine: first a summary, then a judgement.

In conclusion adds no substance if nothing meaningful follows it. It works when followed by a real summary or judgement, rather than merely announcing that the text is ending.

How to build it

summary expression, + main points or overall assessment

To sum up, the survey covered two campuses, three faculties and almost nine hundred students.

A purely descriptive summary without evaluation.

In summary, the new rota lowers costs, shortens handovers and is popular with night staff.

Three points are repeated in a parallel structure.

In conclusion, the evidence supports a phased introduction of the scheme.

A concluding frame followed by a judgement.

Form: fixed wording, commas and position

The frames have fixed wording: all things considered uses the participle considered, not considering; taking everything into account uses into; to sum up includes up. Getting one word wrong breaks the expression. After an initial frame, put a comma and a complete clause, without that: unlike I would argue that, a summary frame does not introduce a subordinate clause.

On balance can also occur in the middle or at the end of a sentence, set off by commas. Initial position is the most common and easiest for the reader.

How to build it

On balance, + sentence; or: subject + predicate with parenthetical on balance; or: sentence, on balance.

subject / S: The grammatical subject: who or what the clause is about; the verb agrees with it. In The book was written, the book is the subject, although someone else does the action.

The proposal is, on balance, fairer than the current system.

The frame occurs inside the sentence between commas.

The proposal is fairer than the current system, on balance.

The frame comes at the end, preceded by a comma.

Taking everything into account, the committee chose the cheaper site.

Initial position, with a comma after the frame.

The strength of a conclusion: balanced, not timid

A judgement is a judgement, not proof. At B2, a writer calibrates its strength with appears to, seems, suggests that, would or may. Categorical proves, undoubtedly or without question is rarely justified when the evidence is mixed. Caution does not mean refusing to take a position: a balanced judgement still favours a view.

A condition with provided that or a concession with although can qualify the conclusion. Provided that means “on condition that”, while although introduces a concession; these are different relationships and should not be confused.

How to build it

On balance, + complete clause with appears / seems / would or another appropriate predicate

clause: A construction with a verb, often with its own subject: when I arrived. A non-finite clause may leave the subject unspoken: to get home.

On balance, the data suggest that shorter lectures hold attention better.

The cautious verb suggest is used.

All things considered, the new rota seems fairer, although it is too early to be certain.

Although introduces a qualification: the writer favours the assessment but is not yet fully certain.

This proves beyond doubt that the rota is perfect.

Grammatical, but excessively categorical for mixed evidence.

Register: conversational endings

So basically, At the end of the day, To cut a long story short and Anyway are natural in conversation. They are not grammar errors. In an academic essay, report or formal letter, however, they sound conversational and are better replaced by a balanced-judgement or summary frame.

The same applies to evaluative words such as great or nightmare: a formal judgement relies on neutral vocabulary and evidence rather than emotion.

At the end of the day, people just want cheaper bus tickets.

A conversational register, entirely appropriate in spoken discussion.

On balance, the evidence indicates that passengers value lower fares above faster journeys.

A formal, evidence-based statement. It is more specific than the previous example because it adds a comparison between price and journey speed.

No new evidence at the end

A good conclusion refers back to earlier material: it restates the same facts in different words and shows what follows from them. It does not open a new topic or introduce fresh figures. A new idea at the end leaves questions unanswered and weakens the judgement.

A conclusion sometimes goes beyond the text to discuss implications. Even then, its support remains the evidence presented in the body.

The lower fares and the shorter queues point in the same direction: on balance, the pilot should continue.

The judgement refers to facts already named.

Taking everything into account, the earlier figures justify caution.

The basis is previously presented data, not new information.

Summarising in your own paragraph and in speech

A useful pattern for your own text is: a consideration in favour, a consideration against, then a frame introducing the judgement. It works in a note, essay or spoken presentation. In speech, contractions such as I'd recommend are possible, but the sequence stays the same: recall what has been weighed and state what follows.

Before finishing, check whether the conclusion is clear, follows from the material and uses the concluding expression correctly. A recommendation or the implications of the conclusion can follow the overall assessment if that serves the text's purpose.

Long commutes drain energy, yet city rents keep rising. On balance, I would choose the cheaper flat, but I would try to work from home twice a week.

Considerations, a qualification and a judgement accompanied by a proposed adjustment.

To sum up, I have looked at costs, comfort and travel time. All things considered, I recommend the second option.

A spoken ending: summary first, then judgement.

Common mistakes

Incorrect:On balance that the benefits outweigh the costs.

Correct:On balance, the benefits outweigh the costs.

After the balancing frame, use a comma and a complete clause. That is needed in frames such as I would argue that, but not here.

Incorrect:All things considering, the plan is sound.

Correct:All things considered, the plan is sound.

The fixed expression requires the past participle considered: everything has been taken into account.

Incorrect:Taking everything in account, the proposal should be accepted.

Correct:Taking everything into account, the proposal should be accepted.

The fixed expression uses the preposition into, not in.

Incorrect:To sum, the findings support a trial.

Correct:To sum up, the findings support a trial.

The summary frame needs the particle up: To sum up.

Incorrect:All the things considered, the policy is fair.

Correct:All things considered, the policy is fair.

The fixed expression has no article before things.

Sources

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