Do you argue with strangers on the internet? If so, you're not the only one.

Deakin University philosophy lecturer Dr Patrick Stokes said he finds himself getting sucked into huge arguments with people online.

"It takes up a lot of oxygen, a lot of energy," he told ABC Radio Melbourne's Richelle Hunt.

He said many people now spend hours of their time arguing with others online.

"Frankly, a lot of people don't do it very well," he said.

So how does one "argue well"?

Slow down

Dr Stokes said that social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter reward speedy communication, but being quick with a comeback is not necessarily the best way to conduct an argument.

"Take your time, don't think you immediately need to respond," Dr Stokes said.

He said it was important to remember that you are arguing with a real person, even if their profile picture is a cartoon dog.

There is no need to be rude or to say something upsetting.

"Make sure you're thinking about what the impact on that person is going to be, even in the heat of a really nasty discussion," Dr Stokes said.

"Remember that there is a face at the other end."

Build your case

Dr Stokes said it was important when entering into an online debate to remember the difference between arguing and asserting.

Stating your opinion is not enough. You need to be able to back it up with a coherent argument.

"One thing l like to say to my students is, 'Look, you're not actually entitled to your opinion in this room, you're entitled to what you can back up, what you can argue for," he said.

Part of that is examining your argument and making sure it stacks up.

"Are your premises true? What are your premises? Do you know what your premises are?"

Know your opponent

To argue effectively you must understand your opponent's position, Dr Stokes said, including any rebuttals of your arguments.

"Part of that just means listening to the other person," he said.

Taking your opponent's objections seriously will help you strengthen your own argument.

This also means being open to changing your position when you find yourself unable to defend it.

If you cannot manage that, it may be best to just keep scrolling.