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Argument analysis is the process of breaking down an argument to determine if it is logical and well-supported. This helps you think critically, which is one of the key skills required in university study. In this section, we will start by learning about the key steps and elements of argument...
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The exercise on this page gives you the chance to practise and sharpen your argument analysis skills. In this article, note how the writer has structured the paragraphs by focusing on one key argument that has its claim as the topic sentence. Each argument is supported by evidence and the...
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Selecting credible sources for your assignments enhances the quality and reliability of your work, making your arguments more persuasive and impactful. On the other hand, choosing the wrong sources can make your arguments weaker. Find out the difference between a strong and weak argument, and what information sources are considered...
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Critical thinking doesn't just happen. It takes time to develop and practice the necessary combination of knowledge, skills and attitude. Let's take a look at how we can develop our critical thinking skills. As a critical thinker, you will: ask questions analyse and evaluate information/theories/practice be aware of your own...
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Use this reading checklist before starting to write your literature review. Authority Who conducted the research? Is the author an authority in their field of study? What evidence is there to support this? Research can find information from many sources, e.g. volumed journals to company reports. At all times, you...
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In this tutorial you will learn why it is important to use high quality information. Hint: you'll get better grades! You will learn the difference between scholarly and non-scholarly information as well as strategies to help you critically evaluate information. Why can't I just Google it? Google is a good...
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Critical thinking is an essential skill for succeeding in your studies, and life. These tutorials will take you from understanding the basics of critical thinking, refining your research skills and finally analysing your sources....
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When it comes to critically analysing articles at university, there are generally four steps that you need to work through: identifying the topic, analysis, synthesis and evaluation. Let's take a look at what's involved at each stage. Identifying the topic The first step in the critical analysis of a text...
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The SIFT method can help you to critically evaluate the validity and reliability of information before sharing it with your online community. Let's explore how it can be used to evaluate information from social media. Social media is one way that people learn what’s happening in the world. But anyone...
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Arguments are claims that are backed up by evidence to support the claim. The logical fallacies on this page are claims that have feelings to support them instead of evidence. Genetic When someone judges an idea or argument based on its origin or source rather than its actual merit. For...
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Being able to think and act critically is an important and necessary skill for your academic success as well as your future employment. Critical thinking is highly valued by employers in many careers, from law to teaching to business. Seeing the reasoning behind arguments and to find flaws and strengths...
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Ever get the feeling that someone's argument is a bit off, but you can't put your finger on why? Feel like the evidence a politician uses is not enough for the claim they are making? Want to know why when your uncle says "reading something online means it's true" it...
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Logical fallacies are mistakes in reasoning. They make flawed claims. The examples below are using flawed evidence or evidence that is not relevant to make their case. Here are five examples of fallacies that involve the misuse of evidence. Texas sharpshooter Where someone cherry-picks data or finds patterns in random...
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Understanding how the persuasive language authors use can help us to understand their potential motivations and biases. On this page, we'll examine how an author has used persuasive language in their argument. First of all, read the article The cost of change. Then, read the Persuasive language analysis section to...
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Throughout your time at university, you will be required to read and engage with many articles, books and other information sources. On this page, you will find tips to help you manage your reading load by reading both efficiently and effectively. Reading efficiently: surveying, skimming and scanning Students can be...