2.0 Setting Up the Argument: Definition (1)

Under the term definition, this section and the next include two different, but related concepts: first, establishing clearly what the argument is about (the concern of this section) and, second, defining any key terms essential to a clear understanding of the argument which is going to use them (the concern of the next section). The main point here is that an argument cannot usefully proceed until we all know exactly what the issue is..

In some arguments, the second requirement (defining key terms) may not be necessary because the central terms are all clear enough already (although, as we shall see, that is not something one should assume too readily). In all arguments, however, especially written essays and oral presentations, the first requirement is absolutely essential.

2.1 Defining the Argument: Some General Points
2.2 Two Simple Examples
2.3 Some Sample Openings
2.4 The Importance of Defining a Focus
2.5 The Importance of Defining a Thesis
2.6 Exercises in Recognizing Potentially Useful Thesis Statements
2.7 Some Hints on Forming Good Thesis Statements
2.8 The Start of an Outline for the Argument
2.9 Some Problems with Introductory Paragraphs
2.10 Exercise With Sample Opening Paragraphs

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