An argument is a claim supported by reasons and evidence. To refine your argument, you need to make sure it is clear, logical, relevant, and persuasive. Here are some steps you can take to improve your argument and avoid common pitfalls.
Your claim is the main point you want to make or the position you want to defend. It should be concise, specific, and debatable. Avoid vague, complex, or emotional claims that are hard to support or refute. For example, instead of saying "The internet is bad for society", you could say "The internet has a negative impact on social skills and mental health".
I partially agree but advocating for a critical examination of the internet's impact on society, focusing on its potential negative effects on social skills and mental health. Let's engage in meaningful discussions to strike a balance between technology's benefits and its repercussions.
With a claim or argument driven by speculation though evidence can be presented, managing a reaction would be to remain calm and allow evidence to be presented before you, allowing for understanding of presented evidence which would allow decisive response whilst avoiding selective hearing and responding which suits respondents argument. Calmness would also be an important aspect considering emotional intelligence.
I begin by identifying my core thesis, then follow these steps: Research: I gather relevant data and evidence to support my argument. I read articles, studies, and examples. Organization: I structure this logically. Start with an introduction, present supporting points, and conclude. Clarity: I use clear language to convey my ideas. Counterarguments: I address potential counterarguments to strengthen my position. Analysis: I explain how the evidence supports my argument. Coherence: I use transitions to connect ideas. Engagement: I capture attention with examples. Language: I use an appropriate tone and style. Editing: I review for errors and coherence. Refinement: I strengthen weak points and add evidence.
Your reasons are the statements that explain why your claim is true or valid. Your evidence is the data, facts, examples, or sources that back up your reasons. You should provide enough reasons and evidence to convince your audience, but not too many that you lose focus or overwhelm them. Avoid irrelevant, outdated, or unreliable evidence that weakens your argument. For example, instead of citing a personal anecdote or a biased website, you could cite a reputable study or a credible expert.
I agree entirely with the opening paragraph. An argument needs to be supported with evidence which should be clear, concise and up to date. I also agree not to " overdo" with facts and quotes. However, to be persuasive, I find real life examples on the particular topic which most people can relate to, are really helpful. Anticipating objections is an essential part of any debate but then so are emotional appeals outside of the academic world.
Your counterarguments are the opposing views or alternative explanations that challenge your claim. Your objections are the criticisms or questions that raise doubts about your reasons or evidence. You should anticipate and address the most likely and strongest counterarguments and objections that your audience might have. Avoid ignoring, dismissing, or straw-manning them. For example, instead of saying "The internet is good for society because it provides information and entertainment", you could say "While the internet does provide information and entertainment, it also exposes users to misinformation and distraction".
Your evaluation is the process of checking and improving your argument. You should review your argument for clarity, logic, relevance, and persuasiveness. Avoid fallacies, inconsistencies, gaps, or errors that undermine your argument. For example, instead of using circular reasoning or ad hominem attacks, you could use deductive or inductive reasoning and respectful language.
Your presentation is the way you communicate your argument to your audience. You should organize your argument in a clear and coherent structure, such as the Toulmin model or the Rogerian model. You should also use appropriate language, tone, and style for your purpose and audience. Avoid jargon, slang, or emotional appeals that confuse or alienate your audience. For example, instead of writing a long and dense paragraph, you could use headings, bullet points, or diagrams to make your argument easier to follow.
Your feedback is the input and advice you get from others about your argument. You should seek feedback from different sources, such as peers, instructors, or experts. You should also be open-minded and respectful when receiving feedback. Avoid being defensive, arrogant, or dismissive. For example, instead of rejecting or ignoring feedback, you could thank the feedback giver and ask for clarification or suggestions. You should then revise your argument based on the feedback and your own reflection. Avoid making superficial or cosmetic changes. For example, instead of changing a few words or punctuation marks, you could add, delete, or rephrase sentences or paragraphs to improve your argument.