This document provides guidance on developing a strong argument with a clear thesis statement, claims, evidence, and reasoning. It explains that a good thesis is arguable but not just an opinion or fact. It should represent a qualified argument that acknowledges multiple perspectives. Claims used to support the thesis must be arguable and backed by different types of evidence like facts, statistics, examples, and authorities. The argument should be developed logically by connecting reasons to evidence in a way that builds trust with the audience.

1. Arguing and Evidence

2. Thesis Statements
A good thesis
statement is
arguable and
based on a claim.
It is NOT:
• An opinion
• A fact
• A summary
• A question
• A personal belief

3. Claims
Good arguments are
based on claims—
statements with which
reasonable people may
disagree.
Some claims
cannot be argued:
• Verifiable statements
of fact
• Issues of faith or
belief
• Matters of simple
opinion or personal
taste. In other words,
a judgment.

4. Qualifying A Claim
Qualifying a claim means that under certain conditions, or
in certain circumstances, or with certain limitations, you
concede that “they” are correct.
Your thesis should represent your qualified argument
(Mixed feelings paper).
An argument is rarely only two-sided: right or wrong.
Your argument should represent that (Mixed feelings).

5. Arguing Logically: Opinion vs Claim
Your opinion
should lead to an
arguable claim
Opinion:
“I think Lady Gaga looks
stupid in that meat
dress.”
Claim:
“Wearing a meat dress in
public is a health hazard.”

6. Reasons and Evidence
Support your claim with reasons your audience will believe.
Connect your reasons with evidence.
Use transition words and voice markers to differentiate between your words and
your opposition.
Use a variety of evidence to support your argument.

7. Types of Evidence
Facts—ideas that can be proven true. Observations, scholarly
research that is accepted as true.
Statistics—numerical data produced through research, surveys, or
polls.
Examples—specific instances that illustrate general statements.

8. Types of Evidence Continued 1
Authorities—experts on your subject. Interviews, surveys, questionnaires
can used as experts.
Anecdotes—brief narratives that your audience will find believable. Your
personal experience or the personal experience of others can support
your argument.
Scenarios—hypothetical situations that describe a possible effect or a new
way of looking at a situation or subject. “What if?”

9. Types of Evidence Continued 2
Case studies and observations—detailed reporting or in-depth
systematic examinations of a situation, group, or person.
Textual evidence—quotes, paraphrases, and summaries from
experts, primary, or secondary sources.
Visuals—charts, graphs, photos, drawings, or other visual texts.

10. Create trust
Build a common ground.
• Incorporate other viewpoints. Allow for other ways of viewing your argument.
• Acknowledge what “they say” fairly, accurately, and without bias.
• Bring up the naysayer, then overcome that argument by refuting it and explaining why
it’s wrong or irrelevant.
Avoid “because I said so” arguments; include reasons and evidence.
Treat your reader with respect. Acknowledge they are intelligent .
Appeal to readers emotions but not so far that they feel manipulated.