reinteractive

Key Features of Good Support

Without support, you state the main point, but you do not make the main point. Consider the following statement:

My neighborhood needs more markets.

This statement may be true, but without support it is not convincing.

Keep in mind that restating the same idea several times using different words is not support; it is just repetition of an idea that does not help you support your thesis.

REPETITION, NOT SUPPORT	I do not deserve an F on this paper. It is not a failing paper. It should get a better grade.
SUPPORT	I do not deserve an F on this paper. It not only follows the assignment, but I was careful to apply the criteria for grading that was handed out. It has a thesis and support. Even though it has many grammar errors, the paper meets other criteria and should have received a better grade.

As you develop support for your thesis, make sure that each point has the following basic features.

BASICS OF GOOD SUPPORT

It relates to your main point, or thesis. The purpose of support is to show, explain, or prove your main point, so the support you use must relate directly to that main point.
It considers your readers. Aim your support at the people who will read your writing. Supply information that will convince or inform them.
It is detailed and specific. Give readers enough detail, particularly through examples, so that they can see what you mean.
It helps you achieve your purpose for writing. Remember your reason for writing.
It is logical. One point follows another and does not have logical fallacies (see Chapter 1).