Critical Reasoning

Question 1

Cause/effect: one fact or claim that leads to another

Answer 1

Signal words: therefore, thus, so, consequently, for this reason, it follows that, as a result

Question 2

Concession: acknowledges an opposing point but the author doesn’t necessarily change his or her mind

Answer 2

Signal words: even though, though, although, whereas, despite, while it is true that

Question 3

Contrast: author is changing direction or disputing an earlier point

Answer 3

Signal words: however, but, yet, nevertheless, even so

Question 4

Premise: this point is used to support a claim or conclusion elsewhere in the argument

Answer 4

Signal words: because, since, for, after all