Every solid argument runs the same four moves, in the same order. Learn the shape once and you can build — or take apart — any case.
The Four Moves, in Order
1. Claim. The one thing you're trying to get them to accept, said plainly up front. “The library should stay open at lunch.” Lead with it so everyone knows where you're heading.
2. Reason. The why behind the claim — the principle that, if true, makes the claim follow. “Because lots of students have nowhere quiet to work.”
3. Evidence. The proof that backs the reason — a fact, a number, an example you could check. “Sixty-four of ninety surveyed said they'd use it weekly.” Without this, the reason is just your opinion.
4. Link back. The move people forget: spell out how the evidence delivers the claim. “So an open library gives those students exactly the quiet space they're missing.” Close the loop or you leave the marker to do it for you.
Two Things That Make It Sound Built, Not Blurted
Signposting. Little words that show the joints of your argument — “firstly… because… the evidence here is… therefore…” They tell the listener which move you're on, so the structure is heard, not just present.
The rebuttal, placed late. A strong case names the obvious objection and answers it — but after you've made your own point, not before. “Some say staffing it costs too much — but a roster of volunteer prefects is free.” Handle the comeback once you're ahead, and it makes you look fair rather than rattled.
Why the Order Is the Argument
Shuffle the cards and the same sentences stop persuading. Evidence before a claim is just trivia — nobody knows what it's for. A rebuttal first hands your opponent the floor. The parts only do their job in sequence: that's what the toy is drilling. When the order's right, each line hands off cleanly to the next, and the case carries itself.