DELF B2 Writing: How to Structure the Essai Argumentatif
Hitting the required word count (usually around 250 words) but still losing points on disjointed argumentation is a very common outcome. The DELF B2 argumentative essay — essai argumentatif — is scored on your ability to build and defend a clear position, not on cramming in as many points as possible.
Hai Bui · DALF C2, 50/50 on Speaking · Oui Academy
A clear three-part structure is always rewarded
The prompt usually presents a debatable topic and asks you to present a reasoned personal position. Standard structure: an introduction that presents the topic and states your position, a body developing 2-3 arguments each with a concrete example, and a conclusion that summarizes your reasoning and reaffirms your position.
Essays that try to stay "balanced" by listing pros and cons without committing to either side usually read as unconvincing — DELF B2 wants to see you defend an actual stance.
A point stated generically without an illustrative example sounds thin. The example doesn't need to be "absolutely accurate" — just reasonable and clarifying for the argument.
Connectors help the examiner follow your essay's structure easily — leaving them out makes the essay read like an unorganized block of text, no matter how good the content underneath is.
Small spelling and grammar mistakes are hard to avoid when writing under time pressure, but spending the last 5 minutes reviewing catches most of the obvious errors before you submit.
Connectors are a necessary tool for both Writing and Speaking
The same connector vocabulary used to separate arguments in an essay applies just as well when presenting out loud. See useful connectors for Speaking and Writing to have a flexible connector vocabulary ready for both skills.
Is your essay tightly argued enough to convince an examiner?
Book a free consult — Hải will help you build a clear argument structure and fix the mistakes that cost points.