Analysing Argument
The Ultimate Cheat Sheet
For an argument analysis introduction, you should follow the acronym
CD FAST CAT
This means that you should include:
Context, Date, Form, Author, Source, Title, Contention, Audience, Tone/s
Phrase bank/sentence stems for language analysis
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This creates the impression that...
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This phrase has the effect of...
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... thus, the reader may be inclined to change his opinion/decision/position/view point
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The reader is encouraged to feel as though...
...thus, readers are prompted to b elieve that...
The writer appeals to the reader's intelligence/ fear/sympathy ... by ...
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... this creates the impression that....
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The writer hopes to sway us to agree with him/her that...
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The word ____ is used to make the reader feel...
This creates the effect of...
Thus the writer appeals to the reader's sense of logic, attempting to sway the reader to
reconsider his or her position that...
The repetition of the word... is used to strongly emphasise how/ that...
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The writer appeals to the reader's sense of compassion for...
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The writer uses the phrase... to stress that ...
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The writer hopes to evoke sympathy and understanding for....
...this is used to undermine opposing arguments b y illustrating the absurdity and lack of
logic in his/her reasoning...
The writer ridicules this point of view by pointing out that...
The rhetorical question ... is used to position the reader to feel that his/her viewpoint is
both logical and irrefutable.
The writer uses inclusive language to align him/herself with the reader and establish a sense
of connection or understanding with their existing viewpoints.
The writer uses an appeal to self interest when he/she claims...
The writer uses the emotive words and phrases ... drawing on their strong negative
connotations to reinforce the detrimental/harmful/undesirab le effects of ... in the reader's
mind.
This attempts to arouse a...response from the reader as...
The writer cites authoritative opinions to strengthen his/ her argument by positioning the
reader to feel that his/her argument is credible and trustworthy. Thus, the reader is
positioned to be swayed to the view that...
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By using inclusive language to enlist the support of the reader, the writer attempts to
position the reader feel a sense of obligation to agree with the viewpoint that ...
...the reader is urged to support the claim that...
The writer uses figurative language to provoke the reader to visualise... and thus feel/think ...
which therefore seeks to convince them that...
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By using the rhetorical question ..., the writer invites agreement from the reader. This works
in conjunction with ... to position the reader to feel...
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The use of the analogy comparing... seeks to shift the reader's perception on the issue to...
which thus evokes a sense of ...
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Here, the writer appeals to the reader's feelings of ... , by implying that...
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Through evocative phrasing such as... , the writer attempts to create a scenario where the
reader...
The writer invites the reader to share the view that ...
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This is done in an attempt to ensure that the reader will adopt the writer's view that...
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By using sarcasm, the writer is implying that...
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By using... the writer is trying to make us feel resentful towards those people who.... and
therefore condemn their actions.
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The writer uses this, relying on the fact that readers will relate to thescenario of... in order
to remind/suggest/evoke...
Ways to vary your sentence starters
* The author [verb]s...
The author suggests that oranges are 'juicier' than apples, highlighting their thirst-quenching properties.
The author highlights the thirst-quenching properties of oranges, by presenting them as 'juicier' than apples.
* [Verb]-ing, the author...
This is one is brilliant and really really important.
Highlighting their thirst-quenching properties, the author suggests that oranges are 'juicier' than apples.
* Having..., the author then...
This one's good for linking your ideas and showing awareness of how the language builds to a cumulative effect.
Having highlighted the thirst-quenching properties of apples through labelling them as ‘juicier’, the author then reveals…
* To/In an attempt to..., author...
To highlight the thirst-quenching properties of oranges, the author states that they are 'juicier' than apples.
In an attempt to make oranges appear healthier and more useful, the author highlights that they are 'juicier' than apples.
* By/through [verb]ing..., author...
By/through suggesting that oranges are ‘juicier’ than apples, [author] highlights their thirst-quenching properties.
* The author's [noun: usage/presentation/depiction/portrayal etc.] of... [verb]s...
Great because it forces you to analyse and discuss the effect.
The author’s depiction of oranges as ‘juicier’ than apples highlights their thirst-quenching properties.
* This ___ [verb]s...
This use of comparative language reveals that...
Verbs describing stuff the author does
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Argue (the author argues that...)
Advocate (the author advocates the idea that…)
Suggest (the author suggests that…)
Reject (the author rejects the view that…)
Undermine (the author undermines the opposition’s argument…)
Attack/mock (the author attack the opposition/the notion that...)
Praise (the author praises the idea that… / the author praises Person X, who…)
Emphasise (the author emphasises that…)
Support (the author supports this notion/his argument by…)
Use (the author uses >technique/phrase< to...)
Portray (the author portrays >something involved< as…)
Attempt (the author attempts to…)
Verbs describing how the author impacts the audience
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Encourage - persuade, positive (the author encourages the audience to…)
Position - persuade, neutral (the author positions the audience to…)
Evoke (to evoke a… responses / to evoke a sense of…)
Manipulate (the author manipulates the reader to see… OR: the author manipulates the reader’s views…)
Build (the author builds the reader’s >fear/emotion<…)
Alleviate (the author alleviates fear/doubt/pressure…)
Shock (the author shocks the reader…)
Phrases to use in Argument Analysis
Analysing Argument
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Analysing Argument
Sentence Starters
Sentence Starters
Main contention
Point of View / Viewpoint Position 1
The writer asserts that…
Contending that …, the writer then …
The author quickly establishes the main
contention that …
The writer’s claim that … encapsulates the
main contention
In an inflammatory tone, the writer declares
that…
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USING LANGUAGE TO PERSUADE
Analysing Argument
Sentence Starters
Sentence Starters
Point of View / Viewpoint Position 2
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Deliberately shifting the main argument to …
Positions the reader to…
Conversely, the writer argues that … which
influences the reader to…
Confirming the perception that…
The use of … positions the reader to share the
writer’s viewpoint that…
Reference to… signals the writer’s view/belief
that...
Tone 1
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Analysing Argument
Sentence Starters
Language Style
Tone 2
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Provocative in language and dismissive in tone, the
writer argues strongly against…
The reverent tone created through the use of …
positions the reader to…
The tone shifts as the writer goes on to demonstrate
that…
Delivered in a forthright manner, the author’s
opinion…
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Analysing Argument
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The tone established by the writer is sombre and
intended to highlight…
Designed to provoke a reaction from the audience,
the tone is…
In a mocking tone, the writer…
The author’s tone elicits sympathy for their position
by…
Using colourful language, the writer establishes a
… tone designed to…
Analysing Argument
Sentence Starters
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The point of view presented by [Name of
writer] is…
In opening, the writer argues that…
Arguing from a position of principle, the writer
asserts that…
The position is further elaborated by the writer
when…
A contradictory point of view is established when/
by
The writer’s use of a formal style and extensive
research findings establishes her credentials
By addressing us informally, the writer establishes a
sense of intimacy with the reader.
The fast-paced and colloquial style immediately
draw the reader into…
The writer uses a relaxed style and numerous
familiar examples that position the audience to
engage with…
Analysing Argument
Sentence Starters
Sentence Starters
Using Visual Material
Persuasive Techniques 1
The argument that... is supported by the embedded
photograph, which depicts...
The caption of the photograph reinforces its... tone
through the use of the word "...
The impact of the graph is…
The photograph sends a clear message that…
Placed prominently on the page, the photograph
positions the reader to…
The grim humour of the cartoon provokes a …response
The cartoon highlights… through …
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By combining the technique of... and... the writer
seeks to position the reader to feel that...
Reminding the reader to past events triggers
associations of…
By introducing a controversial example, the writer
positions us to…
The use of colourful language predisposes us to…
When the writer highlights conflict within the
debate, the reader is influenced to…
Techniques
Analysing Argument
Anecdote
Short account or story
Example:
‘Recently my neighbour experience these problems
first-hand’
Analysing Argument
Appeal to Authority
Uses the opinion of an expert or authority figure
to impress audience or prove a point
Example:
‘Professor Tran’s extensive research in this area
leaves little doubt that …’
How it positions:
Positions readers to respond emotionally.
‘Rings True’ so positions readers to take notice and
accept information.
How it positions:
Reassures the reader that the writer’s viewpoint is
shared by someone with expert knowledge.
Analysing Argument
Analysing Argument
Appeal to Common Sense
A practical everyday knowledge that is accepted as
obvious and therefore ‘true’
Example:
‘The Australian Medical Association said it was
“common sense” that a ban should be in place’
How it positions:
Pressures the reader to agree by implying that
anyone who disagrees lacks practical intelligence.
Analysing Argument
Appeal to Fear and Insecurity
Appeal to Family Values
Suggests that traditional family life provides the
essential values for a healthy, stable society.
Example:
The government needs to make the well-being of
families a top priority to ensure parents have the time
and resources to care for children.
How it positions:
Leads the reader to view traditional nuclear
families as most desirable.
Analysing Argument
Appeal to Hip-Pocket Nerve
Suggests that people’s safety, security or freedom
are at risk.
Threatens our financial well-being because we fear
or believe that we are being overcharged.
Example:
‘If we don’t act now we will be in mortal danger’
Example:
‘The government is going to desperately claw money
out of purses and wallets.’
How it positions:
Pressures the reader to feel that solutions are
needed urgently so they should agree with the
proposals.
Analysing Argument
Appeal to tradition and Customs
Appeals to a sense of security based on the belief that
rituals and traditions are valuable.
Example:
‘Generations of Australians once thrilled to see the circus
roll into town. And while urban sprawl is taking its toll, a
small band of families keeps the magic alive.
How it positions:
Encourages the reader to resist change and to feel
that links with the past should be retained
How it positions:
Positions the reader to reject the view of those who
want to raise prices, fees etc.
Analysing Argument
Appeal to Loyalty and Patriotism
Assumes a commitment to our group, a love of our
country, that old ways of doing things should be highly
valued.
Example:
‘Don’t let your community down—you owe it a helping
hand so it can help you in the future.’
How it positions:
Positions the reader to agree with (and possible
take part in) actions that will benefit the nation or
the group.
Analysing Argument
Appeal to Sense Of Justice
Analysing Argument
Attacks and Praise
Plays on our belief that we all have the right to be
treated fairly.
Attacks belittle a group or individual
Praise presents a person or group as outstanding
Example:
‘the death penalty is the ultimate form of cruel and
inhuman punishment, and a violation of fundamental
human rights’
Example:
‘the sorry state of the Murray River is not just a
consequence of drought, but of more than a century
of dysfunctional management.’
How it positions:
Positions the reader to agree that ‘the punishment
should fit the crime’.
Attack: makes us to think badly of the person/group
Praise: makes us admire the person / group
Analysing Argument
Analysing Argument
Clichés
Overused phrases that a wide range of readers can
recognise.
Example:
‘Let’s hope he turns over a new leaf’
How it positions:
Reassure the reader through a family expression
that can position the reader to accept an idea
because they are lulled into an uncritical mindset.
Analysing Argument
Connotations and Loaded Words
Meanings associated with or implied by words, as
opposed to their literal or ‘dictionary’ meaning.
Example:
How it positions:
Colourful Language
Creates a strong image through unusual and striking
words, especially adjectives.
Example:
Alas, not even the lure of ogling furry creatures—or
brawny life savers—could convince Laura Bust to change
her mind.
How it positions:
Creates a memorable image and catches the
reader’s interest.
Analysing Argument
Emotional Appeals
Any appeals to the emotions that arouse hopes, fears,
desires and so on.
Example:
‘A recent report claims that Aussie worker is a myth.
While it stopped short of saying the Aussie bludger is
back, it claims data shows working hours getting longer is
a myth.
‘there are plans for a national helpline. This should be
fast-tracked. In the desperate, late-night hours, a prompt
reply could make the difference between life and death.’
How it positions:
The reader reacts emotionally to agree with the writer’s
viewpoint before reason comes into play.
Analysing Argument
Analysing Argument
Associated meanings of words arouse feeling and
attitudes that position the reader.
Evidence
The use of facts and figures to provide rational,
scientific ‘proof’ as the basis for a point of view.
Example:
‘Federal funding for private school will increase from
$5.8 billion to $7.5 billion over the next 5 years.’
How it positions:
The reader views the writer’s argument as more
convincing because it appears to be objective
and reliable.
How it positions:
Exaggeration, Overstatement and Hyperbole
Presents an extreme view of a situation for
dramatic impacts.
Example:
‘With the Greens holding the balance of power, whole
industries would be shut down and workers thrown on
the scrap heap.’
How it positions:
Exaggeration positions a reader to respond emotionally
and so be more likely to accept or reject a viewpoint
Analysing Argument
Generalisation
A sweeping statement that suggests what is true
for some is true for most or all
Example:
‘Today’s young royals are rich, famous and fond
of partying’
How it positions:
Powerful because appeals to commonly held
beliefs, prejudice and views.
Analysing Argument
Inclusive Language
Uses ‘we’, ‘our’, ‘us’, etc. to include the readers in
the same group as the writer.
Example:
‘We all know that...’
How it positions:
The reader is positioned to agree with the writer
because it appeals to their desire to belong to the
group or plays on their fears of being ‘left out’ or
regarded as an outsider.
Analysing Argument
Metaphor and Simile
Analysing Argument
Graphs and Diagrams
Facts and figures presented in a visual form.
Example:
40%
60%
How it positions:
Give a quickly understood picture of the ‘facts’ that
support a viewpoint in an article or similar—help to
persuade and position the reader to agree.
Analysing Argument
Irony
A feature of language that allows the writer to say one
thing when their real meaning is the opposite.
Example:
‘We’re running out of water and the government wants
another swimming centre—that’s just what we need.’
How it positions:
The reader is positioned to share in the writer’s
ridicule (and rejection) of an idea or object.
Analysing Argument
Pun
Compare two different things, suggesting a similarity.
Simile uses ‘as if’ or ‘like’; a metaphor does not.
A play on a word that suggests a double
meaning.
Example:
‘The team was about as effective as a walking
corpse.’
‘Bombers hit target after slow start’
Example:
How it positions:
How it positions:
Grabs the reader’s interest and attention,
especially through the use of humour.
Analysing Argument
Analysing Argument
Create a striking and memorable images, often with
emotional impact than can influence the reader’s
viewpoint.
Reason and Logic
Repetition
Used to link ideas and develop an argument supporting
the writer’s point of view.
Using the same word or phrase and idea several
times to add emphasis.
Example:
‘If we had single-bench seating on either side of
the train carriage we could easily accommodate
more people’
Example:
‘It’s a simple choice, a simple plan, a simple
solution’
How it positions:
Makes you accept the writer’s viewpoint as
objective.
How it positions:
Increases the impact of the main point or key term
and so engages the reader’s attention.
Analysing Argument
Rhetorical Question
A question with an implied but unstated answer.
Example:
‘How can we be expected to abandon our cars in
favour of public transport when the system is in such
despair?’
How it positions:
Suggests that the ‘answer’ is self-evident and
therefore the reader mush agree with it.
Analysing Argument
Alliteration
Repetition of a consonant, especially at the start of
words.
Example:
‘Australian households world’s worst at water use’
How it positions:
Gains attention; adds emphasis; often in headlines.
Tones for Language Analysis
Positive Tones
(increasing intensity from left to right →)
Reactive
Positive and Quiet Positive thoughts Positive and caring Positive and lively
Amazed
Astonished
Attentive
Curious
Eager
Interested
Keen
Polite
Startled
Stunned
Surprised
Calm
Casual
Collected
Composed
Content
Peaceful
Pleasant
Relaxed
Relieved
Serene
Appreciative
Approving
Assuring
Confident
Determined
Encouraging
Grateful
Hopeful
Inspiring
Optimistic
Pleased
Promising
Proud
Respectful
Reverent
Sanguine
Satisfied
Thankful
Affectionate
Benevolent
Compassionate
Concerned
Considerate
Consoling
Empathetic
Empathetic
Friendly
Loving
Merciful
Romantic
Soothing
Supportive
Sympathetic
Thoughtful
Amiable
Amused
Cheerful
Delighted
Ecstatic
Elated
Energetic
Enthusiastic
Excited
Exuberant
Happy
Humourous
Jovial
Joyful
Jubilant
Playful
Vibrant Vivacious
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Neutral Tones
Admonitory
Allusive
Authoritative
Balance
Blunt
Candid
Colloquial
Contemplative
Controlled
Conversational
Discursive
Distinct
Evocative
Expectant
Factual
Formal
Frank
Honest
Informal
Informative
Knowledgeable
Learned
Lyrical
Naïve
Noble
Nostalgic
Patriotic
Personal
Picturesque
Questioning
Reflective
Reminiscent
Resigned
Scholarly
Serious
Sublime
Virile
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Negative Tones
(increasing intensity from left to right →)
Negative and passive Negative thoughts
Negative and
uncontrolled
Negative and forceful
Apathetic
Bored
Cold
Dejected
Depressed
Despaired
Disappointed
Discontented
Disinterested
Dispirited
Gloomy
Hopeless
Hurt
Melancholy
Miserable
Regretful
Sad
Upset
Agitated
Alarmed
Anxious
Apprehensive
Defenceless
Distressed
Disturbed
Embarrassed
Fearful
Helpless
Humiliated
Mortified
Nervous
Powerless
Shocked
Stressed
Tensed
Troubled
Uneasy
Vulnerable
Worried
Accusing
Aggravated
Angry
Annoyed
Belligerent
Calculating
Condemnatory
Condescending
Contempt
Disgusted
Factious
Furious
Harsh
Hateful
Insulting
Irritated
Manipulative
Outraged
Quarrelsome
Sarcastic
Sardonic
Vexed
Apologetic
Critical
Doubtful
Envious
Foreboding
Frustrated
Gloomy
Guilty
Judgmental
Pessimistic
Regretful
Remorseful
Shameful
Solemn
Somber
Suspicious
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