Chapter 3. Rhetorical Precis

  In English there are times when a person has a writers block and you have a hard time coming up with an argument to write about. A good way to remedy this is to find and discover an argument in everyday conversations with friends and family. You will find with unexpected delight that this can be a rich source for writing an argument. When your talking on the phone with a friend or family member, they might make a claim about something that interests you. Obviously you will want an explanation or a reason why it is that they feel that way. Then it is up to you to accept or reject their claim. So now you have established a claim, a link, and a reason. Next, find an argument topic that best suits the format of your subject. It may be a definition argument in which you argue for a definition based on the criteria you set out. You could write about an issue based upon your personal experience this is a narrative argument. If you find a subject that you want to take a position then a rebuttal style argument is the best way to go. Read and do research about your topic. This will help you become familiar with points of view already being debated on an issue. There are always going to be skeptic's who disagree or may be a contributor who adds their point of view based upon their additional source. An analyst viewpoint is another good source because you may agree or disagree simultaneously with somebody else's viewpoint. Lastly, find evidence to support good reasons. This makes your argument more relevant and sufficient.