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ENGL1101: Gather Evidence

Types of Evidence

Think about what types of evidence will support your thesis. What will help you make your argument?

The St. Martin's Guide to Writing (Axelrod & Cooper, 2nd ed., New York: St. Martin's Press, 1988) lists the following forms of evidence:

  • facts
  • statistics
  • authorities
  • anecdotes
  • scenarios
  • cases
  • textual evidence

All of these types of evidence are available through the Augusta University Libraries' website. 

Evaluate your Sources!!!

One of the most important aspects of gathering evidence is evaluating your sources for trustworthiness. An argumentative paper is only as strong as the outside sources being cited. When evaluating sources keep the following acronym in mind - CRAAP: 

Test Your Knowledge

Document your Evidence

Per your assignment directions, include evidence you have gathered from various sources and texts and document it properly.

When using evidence, make sure you

(1) introduce it properly, and

(2) explain its significance.

Do not assume that your evidence will speak for itself or that your readers will automatically understand its implications. Explain the evidence you are including and what you want them to understand from that evidence. Explain how it supports your thesis and why that piece of evidence is important in proving your point.

Reese Library Website and Tutorials

Galileo Discover Search

Recommended Databases for this Class

Different Types of Sources