Argument Elements

An argument has to have a conclusion with at least one supporting reason.


Reason:
A cause, explanation, or justification for an action or event.


Evidence:
Something that supports a reason; this usually can be seen in the form of statistics.


Examples:
Something which is used as evidence to illustrate a principle.


Claim:
A statement or judgement that can be challenged.


Counter Argument:
An argument made that is against the conclusion.


Counter Assertion:
When a reason is presented that supports an opponent's argument.


Hypothetical Reasoning:
A claim in the form "If this ... then that ..." , if something happens it will cause something else to happen.


Assumption:
A missing reason in the argument. An assumption is essential for the conclusion to be drawn.