Toulmin Method

Related Resources
Print-Friendly Page
Authors & Contributors

When learning written argument, it is always helpful to observe how others argue effectively or ineffectively. The Toulmin method, based on the work of philosopher Stephen Toulmin, is one way of analyzing a text that we read, with an eye toward responding to that particular argument (as in a writing assignment that asks us to respond) and, ultimately, toward analyzing and improving the arguments we ourselves make. Choose any item below to learn more about the Toulmin Method:

• Definition of the Toulmin Method
• Why Use the Toulmin Method?
• Parts of an Argument
• Conceptual Diagram
• Toulmin Worksheet
• Toulmin Demonstration
• Additional Resources