6
5)
All reasoning is based on DATA, INFORMATION and EVIDENCE.
Restrict your claims to those supported by the data you have.
Search for information that opposes your position as well as information
that supports it.
Make sure that all information used is clear, accurate, and relevant to the
question at issue.
Make sure you have gathered sufficient information.
6)
All reasoning is expressed through, and shaped by, CONCEPTS and
IDEAS.
Identify key concepts and explain them clearly.
Consider alternative concepts or alternative definitions to concepts.
Make sure you are using concepts with care and precision.
7)
All reasoning contains INFERENCES or INTERPRETATIONS by which we
draw CONCLUSIONS and give meaning to data.
Infer only what the evidence implies.
Check inferences for their consistency with each other.
Identify assumptions which lead you to your inferences.
8)
All reasoning leads somewhere or has IMPLICATIONS and
CONSEQUENCES.
Trace the implications and consequences that follow from your reasoning.
Search for negative as well as positive implications.
Consider all possible consequences.