Checklist for reading and evaluating arguments
- What is the writer's thesis, or central claim?
- Are there any gaps in reasoning? Does the argument contain any logical fallacies (see 6a)?
- What assumptions does the argument rest on? Are there any unstated assumptions?
- What appeals—ethical, logical, or emotional—does the writer make? Are these appeals effective?
- What kind of evidence does the writer use to support his or her claims? Could there be alternative interpretations of the evidence?
- How does the writer handle opposing views?
- If you are not persuaded by the writer's argument, what counterarguments could you make to the writer?