Questions
Short answers tied to the books and free practice tools. For definitions, see the glossary.
Valid means: if the premises were true, the conclusion must follow. Sound means: the argument is valid and the premises are actually true. Validity is structure; soundness is structure plus truth. Read the Valid vs Sound guide, then practice with the Valid vs Sound Checker.
An argument is a conclusion supported by reasons (premises). A bare assertion is not an argument, and neither is a mere description. Kids learn the same idea as claim + because + reason.
Steel-manning is restating someone else's position in its strongest fair form before you respond. It is the opposite of a straw man (twisting words). Read the steel-manning guide, then use the Steel-Man Workshop to practice.
A straw man distorts an opponent's view into a weaker version that is easier to attack. In Think Smart, Argue Fair this is called twisting someone's words. Fix it by steel-manning first.
Ethos is credibility, pathos is emotion, and logos is logic and evidence. Fair persuasion can use all three honestly; manipulation uses emotion or fake authority instead of reasons.
Argue Better is the companion site for Think Straight, Argue Better (adults and teens) and Think Smart, Argue Fair (grades 3–5). Free tools work whether or not you have bought the books yet.
Adults: follow the Start Here reading path (Hidden Assumptions → Valid/Sound → Fallacy Spotter → Steel-Man → 30-Day Program). Kids: Claim + Reason Builder, then Sneaky Tricks Quiz. Teachers can begin on the Teachers hub with printable cards.
Yes. Get the PDF from the cheat sheet page after a short email signup, or print the on-site Quick Reference Cards. Both cover the golden rule, valid vs sound, common fallacies, and the Super Thinker's Promise.
Yes. The kids tools and Weekly Challenge work as warm-ups or exit tickets. Quick Reference Cards make desk sheets. See Teachers & parents for three ready 15–20 minute lessons — no student accounts required.
Visit the Learn hub for free guides on valid vs sound arguments, steel-manning, and hidden assumptions. Each guide links to a matching practice tool and the glossary.
Yes. Both books have Chapter 1 samples on their excerpt pages — Understanding an Argument for adults, and Claims, Reasons, and Arguments for grades 3–5.
Usually we judge inductive arguments as strong or weak, not valid or sound. Validity and soundness are deductive standards. Demanding certainty from inductive evidence confuses the scorecard — see the Valid vs Sound guide.
Yes. The Teachers hub includes three ready lessons (claim + reason, sneaky tricks, fair listening), a weekly rhythm, and links to printables. Pair with Think Smart, Argue Fair when it launches.