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Constructing a good argument is the first step in the writing process, even if the project is as simple as how to tie a shoe, but it is also a source of aggravation for writers. Most people can't just sit down in front of a blank piece of paper and words spill out of the brain. It make take a lot of time and brainstorming in order to come up with an strong argument in the writing project, especially if the writer is analyzing information from a primary source other than themselves. The writing process, like anything, has a specific set of guidelines to help construct a good argument.

A good thesis statement sets the tone for the whole argument of the writing project that a writer is working on. This element of the writing usually occurs at the beginning of the project. It can be direct, like one or two declarative sentences at the end of the first paragraph. Some writers prefer to present readers with a question or series of questions that the following paragraphs will answer. If the thesis statement is strong, the rest of the argument presented in the article will be strong and readers will likely enjoy reading. On the other hand, a weak thesis statement makes the following argument unfocused and unlikely to engage the reader. So, this is like the foundation of the paper, making it either solid or shaky.

In order to create a good argument, the writer must make a claim about the topic presented. Many of the article topics on Helium are broad and open to a multitude of interpretations, so a writer must find a perspective on which they want to write before they start conducting research or putting their thoughts on paper. Finding a perspective helps the writer focus. Although it may seem like the writer has to take one particular position, even if it's a fun topic, he or she actually has a lot of flexibility as to how the information can be presented within his project.

Once the thesis statement is stated either directly or implicitly, the writer can think about the construction of the body of the project. There are a number of ways the paragraphs can be organized. Some writers prefer to organize the body by presenting the arguments in order of importance. No matter what order the arguments are placed in the article, there should be a seamless transition between the paragraphs. If the paragraphs don't flow well together, they will sound choppy or confuse the reader. Transition words help bridge the gap between paragraphs; therefore, if the bridge is weak, the words will fall apart.

Finally, the conclusion of the writing project should restate the argument made at the beginning or open the readers mind to questions they need to ponder, according to the information presented in the body of the text. If the argument is constructed well, the reader should come away with a new thought that will help them look at the world from a new perspective.

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