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an argument according to their particular purposes. Let’s take a look at the major pat-
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terns of development and then see how they work in a piece of writing.

Narration
Narration, whether it is based on personal experience or on reading and observation,
Argument
refers to telling a story or recounting a series of real-life events. Chronology usually gov-
erns narration, which includes concrete details, a point of view, and sometimes such
elements as dialogue. In an argument essay, narration is not simply crafting an appealing
story; it is crafting a story that supports a claim or major point by offering insights on the
significance of the events narrated by the writer.

Cause and Effect
The cause-and-effect method of development relies on an analysis of the causes that
lead to a certain effect or, conversely, the effects that result from a cause. It is a powerful
foundation for argument. Since causal analysis depends on crystal clear logic, it is
important to carefully trace a chain of cause and effect and to recognize possible con-
tributing causes. You don’t want to jump to the conclusion that there is only one cause or
one effect, nor do you want to mistake an effect (or result) for a cause.

Comparison and Contrast
Another common pattern of development is comparison and contrast: juxtaposing two
things to highlight their similarities and differences. Comparison and contrast is often
required on examinations where you have to discuss the differences or similarities in the
method, style, or purpose of two texts. It is also useful in explaining distinctions that dif-
ferentiate between two seemingly similar concepts or ideas. Frequently, an argument will
reflect a comparison and contrast of two people, ideas, policies, or viewpoints. Keep in
mind that an argument that makes effective use of the comparison and contrast method
of development will use categories that are similar to each other.

Definition
Another mode of expression that requires careful distinction is definition. When writers
employ this method of development, they convey details about a concept, an event, or
an object to advance their argument. Sometimes arguments that use this method will
convey these details via examples or illustrations. Many discussions and arguments
depend upon an agreement between speaker and audience regarding what is precisely
meant by a word or concept. If we are evaluating a program’s success, for example, we
must define what qualifies as success. Before we can determine whether certain behav-
ior is or is not patriotic, we must agree on just what that word means. Ratings systems
for movies must carefully define violence. To ensure that writers and their audiences are
speaking the same language, definition may lay the foundation to establish common
ground or identify areas of conflict. Such common ground is especially important when
discussing abstract terms such as charity, democracy, freedom, loyalty, and the like.
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