Argument vs. Style

Attribute	Argument	Style
Definition	A reason or set of reasons given in support of an idea, action, or theory	A particular way in which something is done, created, or performed
Objective	To persuade or convince others of a particular point of view	To express ideas or convey information in a unique and engaging manner
Structure	Typically follows a logical progression with premises leading to a conclusion	Can vary greatly depending on the purpose and audience, may include different literary devices
Tone	Can be formal or informal depending on the context	Can range from formal to informal, depending on the desired effect
Use of Evidence	Relies on facts, statistics, expert opinions, and examples to support claims	May use evidence to support arguments, but also focuses on creativity and originality

Introduction

When it comes to writing, two key elements that play a crucial role in the effectiveness of a piece are argument and style. While argument focuses on the logical reasoning and evidence presented to support a claim, style deals with the way in which the information is presented to the reader. Both argument and style are essential components of writing, but they serve different purposes and have distinct attributes that contribute to the overall quality of a piece.

Argument

Argument is the backbone of any piece of writing. It is the logical reasoning and evidence that supports a claim or thesis statement. A strong argument is built on solid evidence, logical reasoning, and clear organization. When constructing an argument, writers must consider the credibility of their sources, the relevance of the evidence presented, and the logical flow of their reasoning. A well-developed argument is essential for persuading readers and convincing them of the validity of the writer's claims.

One key attribute of a strong argument is coherence. A coherent argument is one that is logically structured and easy to follow. Each point should flow seamlessly into the next, building a strong case for the writer's claim. Additionally, a strong argument is backed up by credible sources and evidence. Writers must ensure that the evidence they present is reliable and relevant to their argument. Without solid evidence, an argument may come across as weak or unsubstantiated.

Another important attribute of a strong argument is counterargument. A well-developed argument acknowledges and addresses opposing viewpoints. By considering counterarguments, writers can strengthen their own argument and anticipate potential objections from readers. Addressing counterarguments demonstrates that the writer has thoroughly considered all perspectives on the issue and is able to defend their own position effectively.

Style

While argument focuses on the logical reasoning and evidence presented in a piece of writing, style deals with the way in which the information is presented to the reader. Style encompasses elements such as tone, voice, word choice, sentence structure, and overall writing technique. A writer's style can greatly impact the readability and impact of their work, influencing how the reader perceives and engages with the content.

One key attribute of style is tone. Tone refers to the writer's attitude towards the subject matter and audience. A writer's tone can be formal, informal, persuasive, informative, or any combination of these. The tone of a piece sets the overall mood and can influence how the reader interprets the content. A writer's tone should be consistent throughout the piece to maintain coherence and engage the reader effectively.

Another important attribute of style is voice. Voice is the unique personality and perspective that a writer brings to their work. A writer's voice is reflected in their choice of words, sentence structure, and overall writing style. Developing a strong voice can help writers establish a connection with their audience and make their writing more engaging and memorable. A distinctive voice can set a writer apart from others and make their work stand out.

Comparison

While argument and style are distinct elements of writing, they are closely interconnected and both play a crucial role in the effectiveness of a piece. A strong argument is essential for persuading readers and convincing them of the validity of the writer's claims. However, even the strongest argument can fall flat if it is not presented in a clear, engaging, and effective manner. This is where style comes into play.

Style enhances the impact of an argument by making it more engaging, readable, and memorable. A well-developed style can help writers connect with their audience, maintain their interest, and effectively convey their message. By paying attention to elements such as tone, voice, word choice, and sentence structure, writers can enhance the overall quality of their work and make their argument more compelling.

Ultimately, argument and style are both essential components of effective writing. A strong argument provides the logical reasoning and evidence needed to support a claim, while style enhances the readability and impact of the writing. By developing both a strong argument and a compelling style, writers can create pieces that are persuasive, engaging, and memorable.