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Critique an argument

Understand how to question or refute someone's argument

5 things you need to know...

Learning to argue academically isn't easy. You should listen to the guidance your tutors give you since the way it is done might vary from subject to subject. Here are some general pointers.

1. Look at the assumptions or things which are taken for granted in the argument - identify those which are weak and discuss and disagree.

2. Support your case - evidence and back up your point of view. Get the resources and data you need and use them effectively.

3. Prove that the argument presented contradicts known facts- find evidence to prove this.

4. Find a hole in the argument- look for a gap in the case being made.

5. Show that the conclusion being presented isn't valid or isn't the only conclusion which could be made - explain why the argument being made isn't strong, believable or true.

 

 

 

Need to know more ...

UNIVERSITY OF EAST LONDON (2015) Write it right: developing a critical argument. (online) Available from https://writeitright.uelconnect.org.uk/pages/guides/101/uel_write_it_right.html [Accessed 16th December 2015]
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON (no date) Critical and analytical thinking (online) Available from https://www.ucl.ac.uk/transition/study-skills-resources/critical_and_analytical_thinking.pdf [Accessed 16th December 2015]
COTTRELL, S. (2011) Critical thinking skills 2nd ed. London: Palgrave

Multimedia...

UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM (2014) Writing an academic essay: argument and criticality (2 minutes 18 seconds). Students talk about approaches to being critical of arguments and ideas.

References