In an Advantages/Disadvantages Essay, you must examine both the positive and the negative aspects of a specific idea, plan, situation, etc. This is a four-paragraph essay, with an introduction, two body paragraphs (one for advantages and one for disadvantages), and a conclusion. The purpose of the essay is not just for you to present the benefits and drawbacks of the issue, but to then decide if the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, or vice versa. When organizing the essay, keep in mind that the second body paragraph should contain the side that you consider more significant or at least less obvious.
Advantages/Disadvantages Essay Structure
Introduction
- Hook
- Begin your introductory paragraph with an engaging sentence to get the reader’s attention and introduce of your topic in an interesting way.
- Background
- Present any general information that the reader would need in order to understand the topic and its significance. (When writing about advantages and disadvantages, you are probably discussing a controversial and important issue, and your introduction should reflect this.)
- Thesis Statement
- The final sentence of the introductory paragraph contains the main idea of your essay. In this case, you must make it clear to the reader that the essay will focus on the advantages and disadvantages of the topic.
Body
- Paragraph One
- Focuses entirely on the advantages (or the disadvantages) of the subject.
- The paragraph should contain a clear topic sentence.
- Try to give three advantages, each followed by specific details and examples.
- Paragraph Two
- Focuses entirely on the disadvantages (or the advantages) of the subject.
- The paragraph should contain a clear topic sentence
- Try to give three disadvantages, each followed by specific details and examples.
Conclusion
- Restate the thesis and summarize the main points of the essay.
- End with your opinion and an overall evaluation of the topic. The question you should answer in the conclusion is "do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, or vice versa?"
- Try to end your essay with a strong statement that will leave an impression on the reader.
Writing Tip:
Try to have a smooth transition between your two body paragraphs. An easy and effective way to do this is by beginning the topic sentence of your second body paragraph with an expression of contrast/concession, such as despite or while.
- Despite the many benefits of studying online, there are several significant drawbacks which should not be ignored.
- While this policy certainly has its disadvantages, it is important not to overlook the many opportunities that it presents.
Discussion
Discuss the following essay question with a partner or group. Try to brainstorm as many ideas as you can.
In many countries, it is becoming increasingly common for people to try and experiment with alternative medicine rather than modern medicine.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of alternative medicine?
Exercise
Please open the exercise to continue.