Study Tips
How to Write a Discursive Essay
By Emma Clarke · · 4 min read
Quick answer
A discursive essay explores different views on a topic in a balanced way, rather than arguing one side throughout. Present the main perspectives fairly, support each with reasoning, and reach a measured conclusion. The skill is even-handedness — genuinely engaging with each view before drawing things together.
Discursive versus argumentative
A discursive essay differs from a persuasive one. Instead of arguing a single position throughout, it explores the different views on a topic, weighing them before reaching a considered conclusion.
Understanding this difference is the starting point. Writing a one-sided argument when a discursive essay is asked for misreads the task.
Present views fairly
The core skill is presenting each perspective fairly, giving the strongest version of views you may not share. A discursive essay that caricatures one side is not genuinely discursive.
Even-handedness is what the form rewards. Represent each view as its holders would, then let the reader see the merits and weaknesses of each.
Support each side with reasoning
Each perspective should be supported with reasons and, where relevant, evidence — not just stated. This gives the essay substance and shows genuine engagement with each view.
A discursive essay is not a list of opinions but a reasoned exploration, so each side needs developing with the reasoning behind it.
Structure clearly
A common structure moves through the main viewpoints in turn, each in its own section, before drawing together in a conclusion. Clear organisation helps the reader follow the exploration.
Signposting the different views, and moving clearly between them, keeps a balanced essay from becoming a muddle of competing points.
Use measured language
Discursive writing uses balanced, measured language — 'some argue', 'on the other hand', 'it could be said' — reflecting its exploratory nature. Strident language belongs to persuasive writing, not this.
The tone should be thoughtful and fair throughout, matching the even-handed purpose of the form.
A considered conclusion
The conclusion of a discursive essay draws the threads together and may reach a measured view, but it does so having genuinely weighed the perspectives, not by ignoring them.
It is acceptable to reach a personal conclusion, but it should follow from the balanced exploration, acknowledging the strength of other views rather than dismissing them.
Frequently asked questions
What is a discursive essay?+
One that explores different views on a topic in a balanced way, rather than arguing a single position throughout. It presents perspectives fairly, supports each with reasoning, and reaches a measured conclusion.
How is it different from an argumentative essay?+
An argumentative essay argues one position; a discursive essay explores several, weighing them before concluding. Writing a one-sided argument when a discursive essay is asked for misreads the task.
How do I stay balanced?+
Present each perspective fairly, giving the strongest version of views you may not share, and support each with reasoning. An essay that caricatures one side is not genuinely discursive.
How should I structure a discursive essay?+
Move through the main viewpoints in turn, each in its own section, then draw together in a conclusion. Clear signposting between views keeps a balanced essay from becoming a muddle.
Can I give my own opinion in the conclusion?+
Yes, a measured one — but it should follow from the balanced exploration, acknowledging the strength of other views rather than dismissing them. The conclusion draws the threads together fairly.
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