What Is a Proposal Argument?

When you write a proposal argument, you suggest a solution to a problem. The purpose of a proposal argument is to convince people that a problem exists and that your solution is both practical and worthwhile.

Proposal arguments are the most common form of argument. You see them every day on billboards and in advertisements, editorials, and letters to the editor. The problems proposal arguments address can be local:

• What steps should the community take to protect its historic buildings?

• How can the city promote the use of public transportation?

• What can the township do to help the homeless?

• What should be done to encourage recycling on campus?

• How can community health services be improved?

The problems addressed in proposal arguments can also be more global:

• Should the United States increase its military budget?

• What should be done to increase clean energy production?

• What is the best way to lower the federal deficit?

• What can countries do to protect themselves against terrorism?

• What should be done to decrease gun violence?