Diagramming Short Arguments

For Independent Premises

Example
Smoking is not illegal, therefore people should be allowed to smoke anywhere.

Number the Statements Identify Premises & Conclusion 1. Smoking is not illegal, therefore 2. people should be allowed to smoke anywhere. Conclusion : 2 Premise : 1

Diagram the Argument

Example
The branch manager was promoted to company V.P. therefore, he will transfer to the main office.

Number the Statements Identify Premises & Conclusion 1. The branch manager was promoted to company V.P. therefore, 2. he will transfer to the main office. Conclusion : 2 Premise : 1

Example
You should really take it easy tonight, you have a big test tomorrow.

Number the Statements Identify Premises & Conclusion 1. You should really take it easy tonight, 2. you have a big test tomorrow. Conclusion : 1 Premise : 2

Example
Since Mary visited a realtor and her banks mortgage department, she must be planning on buying a home.

Number the Statements Identify Premises & Conclusion 1. Since Mary visited a realtor and 2. her banks mortgage department, 3. she must be planning on buying a home. Conclusion : 3 Premises : 1, 2

Diagram the Argument

Example
Cat make good pets because, they are affectionate, they are clean, they are entertaining and they do well in apartments.

Number the Statements Identify Premises & Conclusion

1. Cat make good pets because, 2. they are affectionate, 3. they are clean, 4. they are entertaining and 5. they do well in apartments. Conclusion : 1 Premises : 2, 3, 4, 5

Example
People should be allowed to smoke anywhere. Smoking is not illegal, and millions of people get huge pleasure from it.

Number the Statements Identify Premises & Conclusion

1. People should be allowed to smoke anywhere. 2. Smoking is not illegal, and 3. millions of people get huge pleasure from it. Conclusion : 1 Premises : 2, 3,

Example
Lentils are healthy. There are many reasons for this. They reduce heart disease. They are a great source of fiber and protein. And, they are low in fat and simple carbohydrates.

Number the Statements Identify Premises & Conclusion

1. Lentils are healthy. 2. There are many reasons for this. 3. They reduce heart disease. 4. They are a great source of fiber and protein. And, 5. they are low in fat and simple carbohydrates Conclusion : 1 Premises : 2, 3, 4, 5