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Support in Argument

The paragraph and essay models in “Paragraphs vs. Essays in Argument” use the topic sentence (paragraph) and thesis statement (essay) from the Main Point section of this chapter. Both models include the support used in all argument writing: the reasons for the writer’s position backed up by evidence. In the essay model, however, the major support points (reasons) are topic sentences for individual paragraphs.

TYPES OF EVIDENCE

FACTS: Statements or observations that can be proved. Statistics — real numbers from actual studies — can be persuasive factual evidence.
EXAMPLES: Specific information or experiences that support your position.
EXPERT OPINIONS: The opinions of people considered knowledgeable about your topic because of their educational or work background, their research into the topic, or other qualifications. It is important to choose these sources carefully. For example, an economics professor might be very knowledgeable about the possible benefits and drawbacks of beverage taxes. He or she probably wouldn’t be the best source of information on the health effects of soda, however.
PREDICTIONS: Forecasts of the possible outcomes of events or actions. These forecasts are the informed views of experts, not the best guesses of nonexperts.

TESTING EVIDENCE

Consider your audience’s view of the issue. Are audience members likely to agree with you, to be uncommitted, or to be hostile? Then, make sure your evidence would be convincing to a typical member of your audience.
Reread your evidence from an opponent’s perspective, looking for ways to knock it down. Anticipate your opponent’s objections, and include evidence to answer them.
Do not overgeneralize. Statements about what everyone else does or what always happens are easy to disprove. It is better to use facts (including statistics), specific examples, expert opinions, and informed predictions.
Make sure you have considered every important angle of the issue.
Reread the evidence to make sure it provides good support for your position. Also, the evidence must be relevant to your argument.