Argumentation in Scientific Writing

Keywords: basic concepts of logic, deductive vs. inductive arguments, basic argument-patterns, the logical structure of scientific texts, writing a good introduction, writing style

Introduction to the course topics:

Scientists have to be able to present their arguments in a precise and convincing way. However, when writing their papers, many scientists rely on intuition rather than on concrete methods. This course provides participants with all the techniques they need to know in order to state their arguments precisely, correctly and convincingly. The course starts with the basic concepts of reasoning and logic: validity and soundness of arguments, deductive and inductive reasoning, common types of logical inferences. From these basics, we derive useful techniques for argumentation in scientific texts. Participants get the chance to apply the acquired skills directly to their own work, and they get extensive individual feedback from the trainer after the course.

Course aims:

• Participants state their arguments in a precise and logically correct way
• Participants quickly identify strengths and weaknesses in arguments
• Participants write accessible texts

Teaching methods:

• The course is interactive throughout. The contents are demonstrated using examples from participants' texts. It includes extensive exercises that aim at the application of the acquired skills to the participants’ work. Participants receive feedback from the trainer in individual discussions after the course.

This course fits doctoral candidates in the following phase:

during their doctorate │ at the end of their doctorate

Participation requirements:

none

Technical requirements:

Laptop/tablet with stable internet connection, microphone, webcam, Zoom (in most cases)

Additonal information, notes:

none

What participants say about this course:

• Well structured, the trainer conveyed the content on a very heartly / friendly way
• Hands-on. Concepts can directly be applied to research work