3.1 Line of Reasoning

Connecting claims

A line of reasoning is the logical thread linking a thesis to its supporting claims and evidence. Each reason should follow from the last so the argument builds rather than lists.

Commentary and warrants

The warrant is the underlying assumption connecting evidence to a claim. Good writers make their reasoning explicit through commentary that explains why the evidence proves the point.

Coherence

Coherence means the parts fit together logically. Even strong evidence fails if the reader can't follow how each piece supports the overall argument.

Key terms

Line of reasoning

The logical thread linking thesis, claims, and evidence.

Warrant

The underlying assumption connecting evidence to a claim.

Commentary

Explanation of why evidence supports the claim.

Coherence

The logical fit among an argument's parts.

Building vs. listing

Reasons should follow from one another, not just pile up.

Try an AP-style question

A line of reasoning connects…

1. quotations and nothing else
2. emotional appeals and nothing else
3. claims and evidence in a logical sequence
4. random facts collected together