Analytical Writing vs. Argumentative Writing

Attribute	Analytical Writing	Argumentative Writing
Purpose	To analyze and interpret information	To persuade the audience and present a claim
Tone	Objective and neutral	Persuasive and assertive
Structure	Introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion	Introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs, counterarguments, conclusion
Use of Evidence	Relies on evidence and examples to support analysis	Relies on evidence and examples to support argument
Goal	To provide insight and understanding	To convince the audience of a particular viewpoint

Introduction

When it comes to academic writing, two common types that students often encounter are analytical writing and argumentative writing. While both types require critical thinking and strong writing skills, there are distinct differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the attributes of analytical writing and argumentative writing, highlighting their unique characteristics and purposes.

Attributes of Analytical Writing

Analytical writing involves breaking down a topic or issue into its component parts and examining them in detail. This type of writing requires the writer to analyze and evaluate information, rather than simply presenting a personal opinion. In analytical writing, the focus is on exploring the how and why of a particular topic, rather than persuading the reader to agree with a specific viewpoint. Writers of analytical essays often use evidence and examples to support their analysis, drawing on research and critical thinking skills to make their arguments.

• Focuses on analyzing and evaluating information
• Explores the how and why of a topic
• Relies on evidence and examples to support analysis
• Requires research and critical thinking skills

Attributes of Argumentative Writing

Argumentative writing, on the other hand, involves making a claim or argument about a particular topic and supporting it with evidence and reasoning. The goal of argumentative writing is to persuade the reader to agree with the writer's point of view or take a specific action. Unlike analytical writing, which focuses on exploring different perspectives, argumentative writing takes a clear stance on an issue and presents a compelling argument to support that stance. Writers of argumentative essays often use logical reasoning, appeals to emotion, and persuasive language to convince their audience.

• Makes a claim or argument about a topic
• Supports the claim with evidence and reasoning
• Persuades the reader to agree with the writer's viewpoint
• Uses logical reasoning, appeals to emotion, and persuasive language

Key Differences

One key difference between analytical writing and argumentative writing is the focus of the writing. Analytical writing focuses on examining and understanding a topic, while argumentative writing focuses on persuading the reader to agree with a specific viewpoint. Another difference is the use of evidence and examples. In analytical writing, evidence and examples are used to support analysis and evaluation, while in argumentative writing, they are used to support a claim or argument.

Additionally, the tone of analytical writing is often more objective and neutral, as the goal is to present an unbiased analysis of a topic. In contrast, the tone of argumentative writing is more persuasive and assertive, as the writer is trying to convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint. Finally, the structure of analytical writing tends to be more exploratory and open-ended, while argumentative writing follows a more structured and linear format, with a clear thesis statement and supporting arguments.

Commonalities

Despite their differences, analytical writing and argumentative writing share some common attributes. Both types of writing require critical thinking skills, the ability to analyze information, and strong writing skills. They also both require the use of evidence and examples to support claims or arguments. Additionally, both analytical writing and argumentative writing require careful planning and organization, as well as attention to detail and clarity in writing.

Furthermore, both types of writing can be used in a variety of academic and professional settings, from essays and research papers to reports and presentations. Whether analyzing a complex issue or making a persuasive argument, the ability to write analytically and argumentatively is a valuable skill that can benefit students and professionals in many different fields.

Conclusion

In conclusion, analytical writing and argumentative writing are two distinct types of academic writing that require different approaches and skills. While analytical writing focuses on analyzing and evaluating information, argumentative writing focuses on making a claim and persuading the reader to agree with a specific viewpoint. Despite their differences, both types of writing share common attributes and can be valuable tools for students and professionals alike. By understanding the unique characteristics of analytical writing and argumentative writing, writers can effectively communicate their ideas and engage their audience in a meaningful way.