How can you identify gaps in a business argument using critical thinking?

1 Define the argument

The first step is to define the argument that you are analyzing. An argument is a claim or a statement that is supported by reasons or evidence. You need to identify the main claim, the subclaims, and the evidence that the argument uses. You also need to understand the context, purpose, and audience of the argument. For example, if you are reading a report that argues for a new marketing strategy, you need to know what the main goal, the target market, and the expected outcomes are.

2 Identify the assumptions

The second step is to identify the assumptions that the argument makes. Assumptions are beliefs or opinions that are not explicitly stated or proven, but are implied or taken for granted. You need to examine the logic and the evidence of the argument and ask yourself what the argument is assuming. For example, if the report claims that the new marketing strategy will increase sales by 20%, you need to ask what assumptions are behind this claim. Is it based on reliable data? Does it consider the competition? Does it account for external factors?

3 Evaluate the evidence

The third step is to evaluate the evidence that the argument uses. Evidence is the data, facts, examples, or sources that support the claim or the subclaims. You need to check the quality, relevance, and sufficiency of the evidence. Quality means how credible, accurate, and up-to-date the evidence is. Relevance means how well the evidence relates to the claim or the subclaims. Sufficiency means how much evidence is provided and whether it covers all aspects of the argument. For example, if the report uses customer surveys, testimonials, or market research as evidence, you need to check how valid, representative, and comprehensive they are.

4 Question the gaps

The fourth step is to question the gaps that you find in the argument. Gaps are the missing or incomplete information that affect the validity or reliability of the argument. You need to ask yourself what the argument is not telling you, what the argument is ignoring or overlooking, and what the argument is leaving out or skipping. For example, if the report does not explain how the new marketing strategy will be implemented, funded, or measured, you need to question these gaps and how they might impact the argument.

By using these four steps, you can use critical thinking to identify gaps in a business argument and challenge its soundness and persuasiveness. You can also use critical thinking to improve your own arguments and avoid gaps in your reasoning or evidence.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?