What is an assumption?

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Multiple Choice

What is an assumption?

An assumption is an unstated belief that the argument relies on to connect the evidence to the conclusion; it fills in a missing fact that would make the conclusion follow. That description fits the option about filling in a missing fact given a conclusion, because an assumption is exactly that unspoken bridge the author uses. The main idea is the overall point the author is making, not an unspoken bridge. The author's tone is about attitude or mood toward the subject, not about linking evidence to conclusion. A proven fact is something directly supported by evidence in the text; an assumption is not proven within the text and is something the author takes for granted.

An assumption is an unstated belief that the argument relies on to connect the evidence to the conclusion; it fills in a missing fact that would make the conclusion follow.

That description fits the option about filling in a missing fact given a conclusion, because an assumption is exactly that unspoken bridge the author uses.

The main idea is the overall point the author is making, not an unspoken bridge. The author's tone is about attitude or mood toward the subject, not about linking evidence to conclusion. A proven fact is something directly supported by evidence in the text; an assumption is not proven within the text and is something the author takes for granted.

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