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An argument, in simple terms, is a claim plus support for that claim.
Make sure you use language which indicates that you are forming an argument.
Compare the following simplified examples:
Examples of Non-Arguments.
These three examples are claims, or series of claims, but they are not arguments.
1: There is no single accepted definition of ethics.
2: A new definition of ethics is needed. Here are some existing definitions of the concept of 'ethics'. In addition, here is a suggested new definition.
3: The existing definitions of the concept of ethics are too divergent to be useful. In addition, an updated definition of ethics is needed.
Examples of Arguments
These three examples are arguments. Notice the linguistic indicator.
1: The existing definitions of the concept of ethics are too divergent to be useful. Therefore, an updated definition of ethics is needed.
2: The existing definitions of the concept of ethics are too divergent to be useful. This indicates that an updated definition of ethics is needed.
3: A new definition of the concept of 'ethics' is needed, because the existing definitions are inadequate for the current situation. Here are the existing definitions, and here is why they are inadequate. In conclusion, a new definition is required.
Sometimes, as in the simple examples above, the same information can be used either to construct an argument, or simply to write a description. Make sure you are using language which indicates that you are presenting an argument.
Try using very direct language, at least in your first draft. This will help you to make sure yourself that you really are constructing an argument.
Examples of Direct Language to show Argument
1: In this paper, the main claim I make is that a new definition of ethics is required. I support this claim with the following points. Firstly...
2: In this paper, I argue that a new definition of ethics is required. I support this claim with the following points. Firstly...
N.B. Argumentation can become complex. This page merely presents the difference between presenting an argument and a complete absence of argument.