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Learn how to construct persuasive arguments by critically analyzing evidence, forming logical statements, and developing well-reasoned conclusions. This guide emphasizes the importance of objectively evaluating information and adjusting your viewpoint based on evidence rather than seeking confirmation bias.
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IV. Argument 4.3 Writing Persuasive Arguments
Arguing a position Arguing a position is intellectually challenging: It requires you not only to respect the right of others to disagree with you, but also to think critically about your own assumptions, and to separate fact from opinion.
Although you may have an opinion about the issue before you begin to research it, the only honest approach is to allow your opinion to change based on the evidence, rather than looking only for evidence that will support your opinion.
While doing research, and before coming to your conclusion: • Look at the evidence • Make logical statements from the evidence: What does the evidence show? How conclusively does the evidence show it? • Form reasons based on these logical statements. • Finally, form your conclusion based on reasons.
In writing your essay, work backwards from how you formed your conclusion: • Present your conclusion (your thesis, or position) in the introductory paragraph. • Present your reasons (map/topic sentences) • Develop your paragraphs from reason, to statements, to evidence, and then show how this supports your conclusion: Reason statements evidence conclusion
