How to Write a Discursive Essay – Examples, Structure, and Tips

Example 1 – Discursive Essay: For and Against:

1. Introduction: Presentation of the topic and thesis.
2. Main Body:

• Arguments in favour.
• Arguments against.

1. Conclusion: Summary and personal opinion.

Example 2 – Interpretative Essay:

1. Introduction: Introduction to the text being interpreted.
2. Main Body:

• Analysis of specific elements of the text.

1. Conclusion: Summary and conclusions.

Example 3 – Essay with a Rhetorical Question:

1. Introduction: Rhetorical question and thesis.
2. Main Body:

• Arguments supporting the thesis.

1. Conclusion: Answer to the question posed in the introduction.

Introduction

In today's world, the internet plays a vital role in the daily lives of billions. It provides quick access to information, facilitates communication, education, and entertainment. However, it can also bring negative effects such as addiction, misinformation, and cybercrime. This raises the question: does the internet offer more advantages than disadvantages? In my opinion, despite certain risks, the benefits of using the internet far outweigh its negative aspects.

Main Body

Argument 1: Access to Unlimited Knowledge and Information

One of the greatest strengths of the internet is the immediate access to vast amounts of information on virtually any topic. Thanks to the internet, we can learn new things, find answers to pressing questions, gain specialist knowledge, and develop our interests. Educational platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, or YouTube offer free courses across various fields, enabling self-education on an unprecedented scale. For students, researchers, and academics, the internet is an indispensable learning tool.

Moreover, digital resources have made access to books, academic articles, and other educational materials easier than ever before. The internet breaks down geographical and economic barriers, allowing people from different parts of the world to enhance their skills and deepen their knowledge.

Argument 2: Facilitating Communication and Remote Work

The internet's ability to connect people worldwide is another crucial aspect. Through emails, messaging apps, social media, and video conferences, we can maintain contact with family, friends, and colleagues, regardless of distance. Modern communication tools like Zoom, Slack, or Microsoft Teams enable businesses to collaborate effectively from afar, which is especially important in the era of globalisation and the COVID-19 pandemic that necessitated a shift to remote working.

Many employees and entrepreneurs have recognised the benefits of online work, including time and cost savings on commuting and flexibility in organising their workday. Furthermore, the internet has created new earning opportunities, such as freelancing, running online businesses, or e-commerce, which proved invaluable for many during global lockdowns.

Argument 3: Entertainment and the Growth of Digital Culture

The internet has also become one of the main sources of entertainment. Websites like Netflix, Spotify, or Twitch offer a wide range of films, music, and live streams, allowing people worldwide to enjoy culture without leaving home. The internet fosters new art forms, such as digital painting, computer-generated music, or video games, which have gained recognition as a legitimate cultural field.

Additionally, the internet allows creators to share their work with a global audience, something that was previously difficult, if not impossible. YouTubers, influencers, and bloggers have the chance to earn money by sharing their creativity, knowledge, and passions.

Argument 4: The Risks of Internet Addiction

However, we cannot ignore the fact that the internet also carries certain risks. One of the most serious issues is internet addiction, affecting an increasing number of people, especially the youth. Addiction to social media, online games, or constant browsing can lead to social isolation, concentration problems, and even depression.

Psychologists increasingly warn about the negative impact of excessive internet use on mental health, particularly among younger individuals. Digital media addiction can lower self-esteem, distort reality perception, and hinder forming real interpersonal relationships.

Argument 5: Issues of Misinformation and Online Security

Another problem related to the internet is misinformation, which has become a serious threat in the age of fake news and conspiracy theories. While the internet provides access to knowledge, it is also a place where false information, manipulation, and fraud spread. Many people cannot critically evaluate content found online, leading to the spread of false beliefs and informational chaos.

Additionally, the internet poses security threats such as cybercrime, identity theft, or hacking attacks. Users must be aware of these dangers and adopt appropriate protective measures to navigate the digital world safely.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the internet is an incredibly useful tool that opens up endless possibilities for development, communication, and entertainment. Despite certain risks like addiction or misinformation, the benefits of its use definitely outweigh the drawbacks. Proper use of the internet, with moderation and common sense, allows us to fully enjoy its advantages while minimising the risk of negative consequences.

Summary of the Article with Examples of Discursive Essays

The article comprehensively discusses the principles of writing a discursive essay, offering clear guidelines on structure and practical tips. A discursive essay is a form of written expression where the author presents their opinion on a specific topic, based on logical argumentation. A standard discursive essay consists of three parts: introduction, main body, and conclusion.

The tips in the article include:

• Choosing a topic and working on the thesis.
• Ways to properly organise arguments, which should be evidence-based.
• Avoiding logical and stylistic errors to enhance the quality of the text.

For better understanding, a well-written discursive essay example is presented on the topic: "Does the internet have more advantages than disadvantages?" showing how to effectively argue both for and against the thesis.

Additionally, the article provides three examples of discursive essay structures (for and against, interpretative, with a rhetorical question) and a FAQ section answering the most common questions about discursive essay writing techniques.

Discursive essays are an important skill in education, and a proper approach to them allows students to formulate convincing and coherent work.