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I Found My Sources. Now What?

A helpful guide for moving from researching to writing your academic paper.

What an Argument Is and Is Not

Your argument is how you lay out your reasons and evidence to lead your readers to a sound conclusion.

An Argument is ...

  • an amiable conversation about your sources;
  • an amiable conversation with your readers.

An Argument is not ...

  • an abrasive report;
  • designed to intimidate, oppress, or silence your opposition

Turabian, Kate. A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations: Chicago Style of Students & Researchers, 8th ed. Chicago, IL: The University of Chicago Press, 2010. 50.

Building Blocks of a Good Argument

Claim What do want your reader to believe? What is your point?
Reasons Why do you say that? Why should your reader agree?
Evidence How do you know? Can you back it up?
Acknowledgment and Response But what about ...? (addressing areas of disagreement)
Warrant How does that follow? What's your logic? Can you explain your reasoning?

Booth, Wayne et al. The Craft of Research, 4th ed. Chicago, IL: The University of Chicago Press, 2016. 111-113.