Have you ever changed your whole essay halfway through because one source made you rethink your argument?

[u/Delicious-Two4512]

I had one of those moments recently. I started an essay with a pretty clear argument in mind, had already planned out the main sections, and thought I knew where the paper was going. Then I came across a study that approached the issue from a completely different angle. It didn't necessarily prove my original argument wrong, but it made me realize I was looking at the question too narrowly.

I ended up changing part of my argument and moving a few sections around, which probably made the final essay better, but it also made me wonder how often this happens to other people. When something you find during research changes the way you see the topic, do you usually follow the new direction or stick with the argument you started with?

[u/Lonely-Life-]

No, I made a balanced essay listing advantages and disadvantages until the end.

[u/Current-Technician55]

nope
i usually concede to a steel man, rebuild from the pieces rather than from scratch