How do you use data to support your arguments and claims?

1 Know your purpose

Before you start looking for data, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with your argument or claim. What is your main message, and who is your audience? How do you want them to feel, think, or act after reading or hearing your argument? Having a specific and realistic purpose will help you narrow down your data sources, select the most relevant and credible data, and present it in a way that supports your goal.

2 Evaluate your data

Not all data is created equal, and not all data is suitable for your purpose. You need to evaluate your data critically, using criteria such as accuracy, relevance, reliability, validity, timeliness, and bias. You also need to consider the context and limitations of your data, such as how it was collected, analyzed, and interpreted, and what assumptions or perspectives it reflects. You should always check the original source of your data, and compare it with other sources to verify its quality and consistency.

3 Interpret your data

Once you have chosen your data, you need to interpret it in a way that makes sense for your argument or claim. You need to use appropriate methods and tools to analyze your data, such as graphs, charts, tables, statistics, or formulas. You also need to use logical reasoning and evidence to draw conclusions and inferences from your data, avoiding fallacies and errors such as hasty generalizations, false dilemmas, or confirmation bias. You should always explain how your data supports your argument or claim, and acknowledge any gaps or uncertainties in your data.

5 Compare your data

Another way to strengthen your argument or claim is to compare your data with other data, either from different sources or different perspectives. You need to use fair and relevant comparisons, such as benchmarks, trends, averages, or ratios. You also need to use contrast and balance to highlight the differences and similarities between your data and other data, using words such as more, less, better, worse, or similar. You should always provide context and explanation for your comparisons, and acknowledge any trade-offs or limitations.