Choose evidence to support a claim

Learning Objectives Differentiate between various types of evidence (e.g., textual, empirical, anecdotal). Evaluate the credibility, relevance, and sufficiency of potential evidence for a specific claim. Select the most precise and powerful evidence from a text to substantiate an analytical claim. Integrate textual evidence into their writing using appropriate signal phrases and citations. Write clear commentary that explicitly connects a piece of evidence to the claim it supports. Identify and select evidence that effectively anticipates and refutes potential counterclaims. Ever tried to win an argument but couldn't find the perfect fact to seal the deal? 🧐 Choosing evidence for an essay is the academic version of that—and we're going to learn how to win. This t...

TermDefinitionExample ClaimAn assertive statement that presents your main argument. It is a debatable point that you will prove with evidence.In 'The Great Gatsby,' F. Scott Fitzgerald uses the symbol of the green light to represent the unattainable nature of the American Dream. EvidenceThe specific facts, statistics, expert opinions, quotations, or examples used to support and develop a claim.A direct quote from a novel, a statistic from a government report, or data from a scientific study. RelevanceThe degree to which a piece of evidence directly relates to and supports the specific claim being made.To support a claim about a character's loneliness, a quote showing them standing alone watching a party is highly relevant; a quote describing the party's food is not. Cr...

The Rule of Specificity Always choose the most precise piece of evidence available. Vague or general evidence weakens your argument. Don't just say a character is sad. Find the exact quote that describes their 'trembling lip' or 'hollow eyes.' The more specific the evidence, the more convincing your analysis will be. The 'So What?' Test For every piece of evidence you select, you must be able to answer the question, 'So what?' This is the rule for writing commentary. After presenting evidence, you must explain its significance. Why does this quote matter? What does this fact prove? If you can't explain *why* it's important, you need different evidence. The Triangulation Rule For a major claim, support it with more...