Checklist for reading and evaluating arguments

• What
  A-supp-20
  is the writer’s thesis, or central claim?
• Are there gaps in reasoning? Does the argument contain any logical fallacies?
• 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 evidence does the writer use? 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?