Tutor profile: Mara S.

What are the key parts of a well-written argumentative essay?

A strong thesis that introduces a controversial argument is key. In order to write a compelling essay, the thesis should be clear, concise, and provide a stance that can be debated. If the thesis isn't something that can be argued about, then reading it won't be as interesting! Next, the essay should have clear transitions and topic sentences to keep the reader on track. Without transition sentences, the flow of the essay will be disrupted and readers will have a hard time separating one point of the argument from the other. Transition sentences are also helpful for the writer to make sure that they know the purpose of each paragraph (otherwise, they might end up writing paragraphs that don't serve their argument). Finally, a successful argumentative essay needs a section that addresses potential counterarguments. By making the space to discuss any concerns or opposition to the essay's argument, the writer ensures that the readers don't walk away with any lingering concerns or unaddressed questions. Engaging with counterarguments and coming up with responses makes your own argument stronger, and more compelling.

Which of the following statements correctly describes how an event will impact demand or quantity demanded? A) A price increase decreases the quantity demanded. B) An increase in the price of a complementary good increases demand. C) A price increase causes an increase in quantity demanded. D) A decrease in the price of a substitute good increases demand for the original good.

B) is incorrect because an increase in the price of a complementary good would actually decrease demand. For example, if peanut butter (a complementary good) was more expensive, fewer people would want to buy it, and since peanut butter and jelly are often consumed together, demand for jelly would decrease too. C) is incorrect because a price increase would make the good more expensive, putting it out of the price range of potential buyers. So, demand would actually decrease. D) is incorrect because an increase in the price of a substitute good would increase demand for the original good. If the price of Coke (a substitute good) went down, more people would buy Coke instead of Pepsi (the original good), since Pepsi would now be the more expensive option. A) is the correct response! When the price of a good increase, demand will decrease as fewer people will be able to afford it.

What is one of Percy Jackson's weaknesses over the Percy Jackson series? How does it serve as both a strength and a weakness?

One of Percy Jackson's primary weaknesses is his stubborn sense of loyalty. At the beginning of the Lightning Thief, Percy befriends Luke, and is unable to see the ways in which Luke is manipulating him until the very end. This loyalty makes him a worthwhile friend and an honorable hero, one who risks everything to protect those he cares about, making it a strength. However, the excessive nature of his loyalty means that he can be manipulated into making harmful decisions, and makes him more predictable for his opponents (like Luke and Kronos, who won't hesitate to use those he loves to get to him).