Logic in argumentative writing

1. Logic In Argumentative
Writing:
Logic and Using Logic
Emalee Merrell
emaleemerrell@cwidaho.cc
13FA ENGL 201 - 002W
Login in Argumentative Writing
November 2, 2013

2. What is logic in argumentative writing?
• “Logic is a formal system of analysis that helps writers
• invent,
• demonstrate,
• and prove arguments”
• “To be logical, a proposition must be tested within a logical sequence.”

3. How does it work?
• “It works by testing propositions against one another to determine their
accuracy” to form a conclusion.
• Proposition: a statement or assertion that expresses a judgment or opinion.
• Premise: Proposition used as evidence in an argument.
• Conclusion: Logical result of the relationship between the premises. Conclusions serve
as the thesis of the argument.

4. Example
• Premise 1: All men are mortal.
• Premise 2: Socrates is a man.
• Conclusion: Therefore, Socrates is mortal.
• Aristotle
• This sequence of premise to conclusion is
know as a Syllogism

5. How to use logic in your writing?
• To use logic in argumentative writing:
• “lay out each premise clearly
• provide evidence for each premise
• draw a clear connection to the conclusion”
• Logic does not always work to prove your argument because people/readers
use other tools to determine accuracy like emotions or experiences.

6. Works Cited
“Logic in Argumentative Writing.” Purdue Online Writing Lab. 22 Mar. 2013.
Web. 1 Nov. 2013.