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Writing Resources

This guide contains all of the ASC's writing resources. If you do not see a topic, suggest it through the suggestion box on the Writing home page.

Step 2: Explain

T Chart with Step 2: Explain at the top

 

The second step of the five-step strategy, toward improving your scholarly research writing is to “Explain”:

  • In clear terms (simple, direct, accurate, and concise)
  • The who, what, where, when, why, or how of your topic
  • Convey your concepts, claims, arguments, ideas, or key issues

Using Self-Questioning

Ask yourself,

  • “How can I use a compare and contrast graphic organizer to help me identify similarities and differences"?
  •  “How do I “Explain” the similarities and differences found that are for my stance”?
  • “How do I “Explain” the similarities and differences found that counter-argue my stance”?

 

An idea bubble

 

Applying the Strategy

1) Use the opposing (counter-argument) similarities and differences identified to:

  • First, “Explain” the counter-argument of your concept, claim, argument, idea, or key issue.
  • Second, refute the counter-argument and “Explain” the similarities and differences that support your stance.

2)  Or, use some of the similarities and differences that support your stance to:

  • “Explain” your concept, claim, argument, idea, or key issue.
  • Next, “Explain” the counter-argument.
  • Lastly, refute the counter-argument by using the rest of the similarities and differences to “Explain” (reconfirm) your stance.

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