Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Specific evidence and examples are details, facts, statistics, anecdotes, or quotations that support an argument or claim in an essay. They provide concrete proof for the writer's statements.
Support refers to any information or evidence used to back up claims made in an essay. It includes specific evidence and examples as well as reasoning.
Illustration: An illustration is a specific example used to clarify or explain something. It helps readers visualize abstract concepts by providing concrete instances.
Data refers to factual information, such as statistics or research findings, that can be used as evidence in an argument. It adds credibility and strengthens the writer's claims.