conduct lots of background
Remember that a worthy argument is backed by examples. In order to construct a valid argument, good
writers conduct lots of background research and take careful notes. They also talk to people
knowledgeable about a topic in order to understand its implications before writing about it.
Identify the Characteristics of Good Primary Support
In order to fulfill the requirements of good primary support, the information you choose must meet the
following standards:
Be specific. The main points you make about your thesis and the examples you use to expand on
those points need to be specific. Use specific examples to provide the evidence and to build upon your
general ideas. These types of examples give your reader something narrow to focus on, and if used
properly, they leave little doubt about your claim. General examples, while they convey the necessary
information, are not nearly as compelling or useful in writing because they are too obvious and
typical.
Be relevant to the thesis. Primary support is considered strong when it relates directly to the
thesis. Primary support should show, explain, or prove your main argument without delving into
irrelevant details. When faced with lots of information that could be used to prove your thesis, you
may think you need to include it all in your body paragraphs. But effective writers resist the
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temptation to lose focus. Choose your examples wisely by making sure they directly connect to your
thesis.