Argument Analysis Cheat Sheet 🧩

Use this quick sheet while reading any philosopher.

The 6-Step Reading Pass

1. Claim: What is the main thesis?
2. Reason: Why does the author think it is true?
3. Assumption: What is taken for granted?
4. Counterexample: Where could this fail?
5. Reply: How might the author answer that objection?
6. Application: Where does this matter today?

Fast Argument Template

Author:
Text/Section:
Main claim:
Premise 1:
Premise 2:
Hidden assumption:
Strongest objection:
Possible reply:
My verdict (1-2 lines):

Common Logical Checks

• Is the argument valid or only persuasive?
• Are key terms clearly defined?
• Is there a false dilemma?
• Is a historical claim being treated as a logical proof?
• Is correlation being confused with causation?

Typical Fallacies to Watch

• Strawman
• Ad hominem
• Appeal to authority (without scope)
• Slippery slope (without mechanism)
• Circular reasoning

Weekly Drill (10 Minutes)

• Pick one paragraph from your current text.
• Write the claim + two premises.
• Write one objection + one reply.
• Save in docs/reviews/core-book-reviews.md.