What it looks like
An example from Politics.
There are many arguments for and against first-past-the-post. Supporters say it produces strong single-party governments, while critics say it is unfair to smaller parties. Both sides make valid points, and it is a complex issue.
This essay argues that first-past-the-post’s main defence — strong single-party government — is weaker than its supporters claim. Supporters say it produces strong single-party governments, while critics say it is unfair to smaller parties. Yet the 2010 and 2017 elections both produced hung parliaments, so the system does not reliably deliver the strength that is meant to justify its unfairness.
Why markers write it
An argument is what turns material into an answer. Markers read looking for the line that connects every paragraph, and if they can’t find it, even strong points look like a list. Most UK marking criteria reward a clear, sustained argument in the upper bands, so an unclear one costs marks even when the content is good.
How to fix it in your next essay
- 1Write your answer in one sentenceBefore you draft, finish this sentence: “This essay argues that…”. If you can’t, decide that first.
- 2Put it in the introductionState your position in the first paragraph, so the marker reads everything after it as support.
- 3Tie each paragraph back to itEnd each paragraph by saying how it supports, qualifies or tests your position.
Phrases that help
How much it costs
An unclear argument often holds an essay below the 2:1 range in UK marking, because upper-band descriptors usually call for a clear, coherent and sustained argument.
Other ways markers say it
- “Unclear argument”
- “What is your argument?”
- “Line of argument unclear”
- “Needs a clearer argument”
- “Argument gets lost”
Often written alongside
Common questions
- Can my argument be “it depends”?
- Yes, if you say what it depends on and why. “It depends” on its own isn’t an argument; “it holds for X but not for Y, because…” is.
- Do I have to pick one side completely?
- No. A qualified position is often stronger — but it still has to be a position, stated clearly and defended.
- Is this the same as “no clear thesis”?
- They overlap. “No clear thesis” is about the introduction; “argument is unclear” means your position gets lost anywhere in the essay.