Before I entered graduate school, I thought professors had
super-logical brains. Now I see that, yes, they are logical, but professors are
logical because they are comfortable with logical arguments—not because their
brains are made to create logical arguments. So, you better give them what they
want: a logical presentation. It is, however, easier to be said than done,
especially when it comes to your things.
Here are three logic flows that you might want to use. At
least they have been the useful checklist if my claim sounds logical.
 |
| thinking outside of the box is important, but must be logical |
i)
Syllogism
Most popular logic flow, i.e., A is B. B is C. Thus, A is
C.
In scientific arguments, however, you better be careful
that the logic is enough to satisfy scientific rigor.
ii) Toulmin Logic
With this method, the logical story can be made of six factors:
(1) data, (2) warrant, (3) claim, (4) backing, (5) qualifier, and (6)
reservation.
If you are good with syllogism in your presentation, we
already have used half of it. (1) Data are your data; (2) warrant is the number
of your emphasized points (review last week’s paper); (3) claim is the
conclusion (review last week’s paper).
Toulmin logic can make your logic flow smooth. Find (4)–(6)
and put them into your presentation. “Backing” is, for example, the previous
report or paper. “Qualifier” is, for example, the logic that could disprove
your claim. “Reservation” is, for example, your additional idea or data that
disprove the one that could disprove your conclusion listed in (5).
iii) Use PISTOL
In order to be logical, you better use PISTOL. Don’t get
me wrong, PISTOL is simply the acronym for problem-importance-solution-ownership-timeline-location
(or limitation of the discussion). This logic flow is especially useful when answering questions from your audience.
Good luck on your logical presentation!
