Sign Posting

Below are what Carroll refers to as "argument indicators", which act like signposts, pointing towards an argument that you are trying to make. (Carroll, 2017)

EXAMPLE

Running on icy surfaces is dangerous, so it is important to proceed cautiously.

Use these examples:

Since

His argument is weak, since he makes only vague reference to the wealth of research in this area.

Because

The use of protective clothing is advised when using weed killers because it has been proven that they are linked to health issues.

For

Literary analysis is complicated, for there are many possible interpretations of the same material.

Thus

Smith (1999) argues that the case study is the most widely used approach to educational enquiry, thus that is the method chosen.

Therefore

The author has provided figures to prove his case, therefore it is difficult to deny that smoking impairs the body.

It follows that

As this student has done little research for his assignment, it follows that he will be awarded a very poor grade.

As a result, it can be concluded that

As students who engage in larger volumes of reading, tend to get high marks, as a result, it can be concluded that there is a relationship between amount of research and grade achieved.

This would suggest that

Student with poor attendance fail more exams, this would suggest that good attendance is a factor in achieving good results.

If…Then…

If you have made a claim and supported it with reason, then it is reasonable to assume you are building an argument.