Argument maps are box-and-line diagrams that lay out visually reasoning and evidence for and against a statement or claim. A good map clarifies and organizes thinking by showing the logical relationships between thoughts that are expressed simply and precisely.

Argument maps are driven by asking, ‘Should I believe that? Why, or why not?’.

While this takes on the appearance of mapping, this is different to a normal mind map®. Rather than seeking to simply map out all the information, it actually forms a focused outcome through reasoning.

You can produce two kinds of argument maps in Rationale:

1. Reasoning maps, which lay out arguments in a quick, intuitive way

2. Analytic maps, which enable a more careful and rigorous analysis of an argument.

Different kinds of map are defined by the nature of the relationships they depict – what the boxes and lines mean.

What kind of map, depends on:

• what goes in the boxes; and
• what the connecting lines indicate.

Argument Maps show only evidential (inferential) relationships between claims. In Argument Maps, the lines mean something very specific: that something is a reason to believe or a reason not to believe something else. Argument maps are driven by the question, ‘Why should I believe that?’. Any map driven by that question is an Argument Map.

What is 'Critical Thinking' and how can it help me?

Critical thinking is about making good judgments. Much of critical thinking involves dealing with arguments.

To be a good critical thinker you must be skilled at articulating and evaluating arguments.

Argument mapping helps us carry out these tasks. Argument maps are box-and-line diagrams laying out the arguments for and against some claim.

Rationale is software for argument mapping. It was designed to support Critical Thinking skills by helping us

• build,
• modify,
• evaluate, and
• communicate arguments.

Inbuilt tutorials: Take advantage of the inbuilt tutorials and help files to gain a better understanding of argument mapping and the positive impact it can have on your life.

Important Pricing Information:

Extra Options: 2 Year HelpDesk Plan Included with most license types, primary technical support refered.

* Large Scale Deployment - Large deployment discounts and time limited price freezes are available on 25+ user purchases. Please contact Mindsystems on 1300 200 555 (+61 3 9770 2555) to discuss the most suitable option for your business.