Good evidence is reliable, relevant, and sufficient to support a claim or argument. It comes from credible sources and is presented in a clear and understandable way.
Key Characteristics of Good Evidence:
- Reliability: This means the evidence is accurate, trustworthy, and consistent with other known facts.
- Example: A study published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal is more reliable than a blog post written by an anonymous author.
- Relevance: The evidence directly relates to the claim or argument being made.
- Example: If you are arguing that climate change is real, you would need evidence about rising global temperatures, not evidence about the effects of deforestation.
- Sufficiency: There is enough evidence to support the claim or argument.
- Example: A single anecdote is not enough evidence to prove a general trend. You would need multiple examples or statistical data.
Sources of Good Evidence:
- Peer-reviewed academic journals: These journals publish articles that have been reviewed and approved by experts in the field.
- Government reports: Governments collect and publish data on a wide range of topics, including economics, health, and education.
- Reputable organizations: Many organizations, such as non-profits and think tanks, conduct research and publish reports on various issues.
- Primary sources: These are original documents or artifacts, such as diaries, letters, photographs, and historical records.
- Expert opinions: Statements from experts in a particular field can provide valuable insights and perspectives.
Presenting Good Evidence:
- Clearly state the claim or argument.
- Provide specific examples of the evidence.
- Explain how the evidence supports the claim or argument.
- Acknowledge any limitations or alternative perspectives.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that the evidence you use is strong and convincing.
