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
A line of reasoning refers to the logical progression and organization of ideas in a piece of writing or argument. It is the way in which evidence, examples, and analysis are presented to support a central claim or thesis.
Related terms
Thesis Statement: A thesis statement is the main idea or central claim that guides your entire essay. It serves as the foundation for your line of reasoning.
Evidence refers to specific facts, examples, statistics, or expert opinions that support your claims. It strengthens your line of reasoning by providing proof for your arguments.
Logical Fallacies: Logical fallacies are errors in reasoning that weaken an argument's effectiveness. They can include faulty assumptions, flawed logic, or misleading rhetoric. Being aware of logical fallacies helps you strengthen your own line of reasoning by avoiding these pitfalls.