Easiest Way To Make A Good Argument: And Spot Bad Ones

Secret ways to make your arguments robust. And how to stay away from bad ones.

In our modern era, major media outlets often play a role in creating divisions among us on a range of issues. They have a knack for keeping people on different sides. That’s why having the skill to put forward a convincing argument is more important than ever.

That’s more for the fun political arguments, though. But in work and life, being able to express your thoughts effectively can help bridge gaps and foster understanding.

Come along as we show you some secret ways to present your case better. Easy steps to learn what makes a good argument. One that is coherent and robust. And how to avoid the pitfalls of a bad argument.

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Simple Way to Spot a Good Argument from a Bad One

Here is the simple breakdown of what makes a good argument. And how to recognize tells of when someone is losing an argument.

A strong argument, one that truly hits the mark, sticks to the main topic and carefully weighs the pros and cons.

On the flip side, a weak argument tends to lose focus. It delves into irrelevant details that may seem important but, in reality, only muddy the waters.

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What Makes a Good Argument

Making a compelling argument if actually simpler than you may think. Here are some things to keep in mind and understand.

Staying on Topic

When aiming for a strong and persuasive argument, it’s crucial to stay on course. Avoid the temptation to wander into the weeds of peripheral details. To keep discussions on track, employ techniques that bring conversations back to a high-level perspective.

For instance, you might say, “Going back to our main concerns, let’s first get a decision on…” or “Those are interesting questions, but if we get closure on…, it would help the discussion.”

Emotional Control

In the heat of a passionate discussion, maintaining emotional composure is paramount. Allowing emotions to guide your statements often proves detrimental to making valid points. Emotional outbursts typically signal that the argument may not be going in your favor.

Understanding Cognitive Dissonance

Cognitive dissonance, a key player in disagreements, occurs when individuals sense, on a subconscious level, that they are losing an argument. Recognizing the signs of cognitive dissonance is essential.

According to Scott Adams, the creator of Dilbert and a trained hypnotist, people experiencing cognitive dissonance exhibit specific “tells” that signal their resistance to logic and reason.

These include changing the topic, resorting to ad hominem attacks, mind-reading, word salad, using analogy instead of reason, insisting on complexity, and starting a sentence with “So…” (indicating a straw man argument).

Breaking the Cognitive Dissonance State

To navigate around cognitive dissonance, simplicity is key. Keep your arguments straightforward. If your opponent is ensnared in cognitive dissonance, challenge them by disproving one claim and suggesting they reconsider the rest.

Avoiding Mind-Reading

Mind-reading during an argument is a telltale sign that things may be going south. Assuming knowledge of the other person’s thoughts can lead to misunderstandings and further escalate tensions.

For instance, assuming your opponent’s motives or assuming they know your inner thoughts can hinder constructive dialogue.

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How to Make a Good Argument

To craft a strong, compelling argument, remember these key principles that will bring it all together:

1. Keep It Simple: Present your points in a straightforward and uncomplicated manner. Avoid unnecessary complexity or jargon.
2. Stay on Topic: Resist the temptation to meander into side topics. If the conversation strays, gently guide it back to the main point.
3. Avoid Analogies: Analogies may seem helpful but often introduce additional points of contention. Stick to the specifics of the main issue.
4. Grant a Graceful Exit: When you sense victory, offer the other person a dignified way to transition to your viewpoint. Encourage a shift without creating animosity.

Mastering the art of a good argument involves maintaining focus, emotional control, and a keen awareness of cognitive dissonance. By adhering to these principles, you can navigate discussions with finesse and increase the likelihood of reaching a satisfying resolution.

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Additional Reading to Make Stronger Arguments

Choosing the right book on a topic can be tricky, as opinions vary. But when it comes to nailing your case, experts unanimously recommend “Win Your Case: How to Present, Persuade, and Prevail–Every Place, Every Time” by Gerry Spence.

In this book, Gerry Spence, a legendary trial lawyer, shares his expertise in advocacy and courtroom success. Known for his unique storytelling and persuasion skills, Spence’s approach makes “Win Your Case” a must-read for anyone looking to excel in arguing their point.

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If you think we convinced you that these techniques are useful, you may want to like, share or leave us a comment below. It helps us get our advice out to a wider audience because we rely on readers like you to grow!

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By Master Influencer Magazine Leadership & Influence Staff

Published 7:59 PM EDT, Friday December 29, 2023

Keywords

Decision Making, Influence, Opinion change, Cognitive Dissonance, Behavior Change, Personal Development, Scott Adams, Simplification