> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://drew-m-loewe.gitbook.io/open-educational-resource-prepared-by-drew-m.-loewe-for-learning-about-argumentation-and-synthesis/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://drew-m-loewe.gitbook.io/open-educational-resource-prepared-by-drew-m.-loewe-for-learning-about-argumentation-and-synthesis/overview.md).

# Overview

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To develop as a confident reader, writer, arguer, you will need to master some essential skills:

* Identifying what is, or could be, at issue. 
  * First, you’ll encounter **stasis theory**, which shows you how to pinpoint exactly what’s being contested and why that's so important.
* Understanding the structure of an argument, including what the argument asks you to accept, what basis there is for accepting it, and what the argument takes for granted. 
  * You will learn about the **Toulmin model of argument**, a practical description of how arguments work through a structure of claims, grounds, and other features.
* Building **counter-arguments** that are fair and effective. 
  * Counter-arguments can arise in the course of hesitancy or resistance to argumentation, both of which are to be expected sometimes when you ask someone to share a point of view. 
* Creating **synthesis**, which uses disparate bits of evidence or argumentation to find patterns, make knowledge, and fuel your own arguments.  
  * Synthesis is a process of knowledge transformation through reading, rereading, integrating, organizing, and writing. You will learn one particularly useful pattern for writing synthesized paragraphs.

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