7 Chapter 7 – Dressing for the Right Party
The robust, muscular ideas of a thoughtfully developed academic argument can be presented in any number of different ways, depending on the particular content and the needs of the audience. Just like dressing for the right party, the way you present your argument should be tailored to the specific “occasion.”
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Formal Attire: In a highly academic setting, you might use formal language, complex sentence structures, and extensive citations to showcase the strength and depth of your research. This is like dressing in a suit and tie for a formal event.
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Cocktail Chic: In a less formal setting, you might adopt a more conversational tone, use clear and concise language, and choose engaging examples to make your argument accessible. This is akin to dressing in a stylish yet approachable outfit for a cocktail party.
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Casual Yet Polished: For a general audience, you might strike a balance between academic rigor and accessibility. Use clear explanations, relevant data visualizations, and a touch of informality to keep your audience engaged. Think of this as dressing in a well-fitting pair of jeans and a blazer for a casual gathering.
The key is to understand your audience and choose the right “outfit” for your argument. A strong, well-developed argument can be presented effectively in any setting, as long as you “dress” it appropriately for the occasion.
This analogy with dressing for a party helps connect the concept of tailoring your argument to the audience with a relatable and concrete image. It reinforces the idea that a well-constructed argument can be presented in various ways, depending on the context.
