Separate facts, predictions and interpretations · D8.5

Check a broad claim against examples

A belief uses words such as always or never, and you want to examine its scope.

Everyday practice

Try these steps

1. Write the claim exactly as it comes to you.
2. Recall one example that fits it and, if available, one that does not. Include circumstances that differ between the examples.
3. Write a more precise statement, or leave the claim undecided if you do not have enough information.

An example

‘Nobody listens’ fits yesterday’s meeting, but not the conversation with Lee. The setting may matter.

Reflect

What does the evidence support, and what would be overgeneralizing?

Next time

Update the statement as evidence changes.