【明報專訊】In order to present a balanced argument, indicating both advantages and disadvantages of a chosen topic, you need to follow certain guidelines characteristic to this genre.
Firstly, your introduction should be an unbiased overview of what you are going to say. Touch on key points and indicate that both pros and cons exist.
Then, present the advantages of your given topic. Each paragraph should contain only one idea, outlined in the topic sentence. Supporting sentences should provide examples specific to the topic sentence and also indicate the implications of the examples.
Follow this with the disadvantages, using the same paragraph structure I have outlined above. Further improve clarity by using connectors of exemplification (例證) (e.g. for instance), addition (e.g. in addition) and cause and effect (e.g. as a result).
Finally, summarise your ideas in the last paragraph. You may decide to include your own opinion here if you feel that it is appropriate for the readership. Remember, in this type of essay, you are not trying to persuade the reader but, rather, present a balanced argument.
