1. An effective argument has  Evidence  Ex. primary sources (photographs, original documents); statistics; authority figures or experts  Visuals can help highlight your point (ex. bold statistics, images, etc.)

2. An effective argument has  A logical conclusion that is supported by valid premises*. *A premise is a proposition upon which an argument is based and/or a conclusion is drawn. Example: Premise 1: John Doe is a doctor. Premise 2: All doctors treat patients. Conclusion: John Doe treats patients.

3. Avoid logical fallacies or defects in arguments that cause them to be invalid.  Executions are moral because we must have a death penalty to discourage violent crime.  You would think that taxes should be lowered because you are a Republican [and therefore your argument about taxes should be rejected].

4. Analyzing examples  http://debate.uvm.edu/watchdebate.html http://debate.uvm.edu/watchdebate.html  The atomic bomb in Hiroshima, was it justified?  36:00  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Re6uynf6Qhw http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Re6uynf6Qhw  4:20

5. Tips  Define your terms.  Be consistent in your terminology.  Rephrase key points to make sure they are understood.