Introduction

• Clearly state the main topic in the introduction. According to University of Houston Victoria Academic Center in a document entitled "Persuasive/Argumentative Papers," in academic writing, a general reference to the topic is in the beginning of the introduction and narrows down to the thesis within about four to six sentences. The reader should have a clear understanding of the thesis after reading the introduction alone.
  
  

Statement of the Case

• In every argument, there are several elements. The case or topic is stated in this section and presents all pertinent information that supports the argument. The University of Houston Victoria Academic Center says that at least one paragraph of the statement of case should be dedicated to each element of the argument.
  
  

Proposition Statement

• The proposition statement is similar to the thesis statement, but differs because it defines the scope of the essay in detail. This statement should be a debatable statement. A debatable statement is a statement that other people may not agree with. "Solar energy is the only way to meet America's energy needs today," would be an example of a debatable statement.
  
  

Refutation

• Refute claims made against the main argument of the paper. The writer should research the audience and views, which may oppose their argument. This section acknowledges that there are other arguments and views out there, but it will refute them, making your argument stronger by showing that opposing ideas are considered, yet have been disproved.
  
  

Conformation

• Reinforce the key points of your argument that refute the opposition's argument. According to The University of Houston Victoria Academic Center, the proposition statement, the refutation section and the conformation section should be parallel.
  
  

Digression

• Include anecdotal information. Anecdotal information can be case study information or a personal related story that has been documented in a journal. Even though this information is considered to be anecdotal, the information should still be factual and well-documented.
  
  

Conclusion

• All essays must have a conclusion. It is the final part of the essay and is the writer's last chance to state his or her case. The conclusion must be convincing and typically goes over some of the key elements of the essay, drawing everything together in one convincing final argument.