Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Fifteen

            Chapter fifteen focused on using sources effectively. When presenting an idea or argument, how the evidence is presented will determine what the reader notices, or focuses on concerning the issue. Contrasting and disagreeing ideas and arguments can be shown through the use of evidence, and can help lay out the different approaches around the issue. One of the most important uses for evidence is to back up arguments. When a reader realizes that the argument is backed up by someone qualified in that area, they are a lot more likely to consider the argument. Evidence can also be useful for defining and clarifying concepts or complex subjects. Not so much for backing up information and arguments, but for giving an affect, quotations can be used for setting a mood. Sources can also be used for giving an example. Amplifying or qualifying a point is another purpose. Amplify means to expand the point, while qualify means to narrow it down. When integrating sources into a draft, identifying the source is an essential part. Identifying the source allows provides the information on who backs up statements, distinguishes between the writer’s ideas and the sourced, and also provides credibility to the work. Choosing how to quote will impact the reader’s opinion of the document. When paraphrasing, it is important to make sure that the information is accurately transferred into the writer’s own words. Similar caution should be used with summarizing. Numerical information can also be used if relevant. This can be in graphs and charts, but also sentence form. Images can also be used to push forward the point more effectively; however the sources need to be carefully cited in order to avoid plagiarism. The first step on how to document sources is to choose a system. This means choosing systems like MLA of APA. What system is used will vary upon what field is being studied. According to whatever system is chosen, in text citations relating to a works cited page are necessary. It is important to make sure that all sources are cited, and also when working with sources, to distinguish between the ideas of the sources and the idea of the writer.