What do the following situations have in common? 
Although there are differences between these situations, they are similar in that they involve possible differences of opinion. Differences of opinion like this can be resolved by offering an argument in support of a specific position. For example, if you are convincing your friend to go for a hike, you may point to the benefits of exercise, or you may show them reviews of a particular destination, or you may argue that the activity is more appropriate for the weather or the time of day than spending an afternoon inside.
Similarly, in North American academic writing, an argument is a set of statements in which an author explains why others should agree with their position on a topic of scholarly interest. An academic argument has two parts, at minimum: the part where an author states their position or claim, and the part where they detail the reasons or evidence in support of a position. Ideally, these reasons will rely on factual information or informed, credible opinions of other experts on the topic discussed in the argument. Arguments can often be strengthened by including some analysis, such as the author's observations on how the evidence is related to the position they are arguing and why it is significant. Mapping out an academic argument in this way can help you share your critical thinking on a topic with your audience, and help them understand the reasoning behind your point of view.
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