What is the main function of evidence in an argumentative essay?

The primary function of evidence in an argumentative essay is to support claims and persuade with logical reasoning. Evidence provides the foundation for the arguments being made, helping to establish credibility and persuade the reader of the validity of the claims being presented. In persuasive writing, the effectiveness of an argument often hinges on the quality and relevance of the evidence used; it can include statistics, research findings, expert opinions, and real-life examples.

By incorporating strong evidence, the writer not only reinforces their claims but also anticipates counterarguments, making the overall argument more compelling. This logical approach is crucial in convincing readers to accept a particular viewpoint or take a specific action based on the argument presented. Evidence aligns with critical thinking principles, as it encourages readers to analyze and evaluate the reasoning behind the argument.

The other options do not fulfill the role of evidence in an argumentative context. While entertaining the reader is important in writing, it does not contribute to the persuasive element of the argument. Introducing new topics and summarizing conclusions serve different purposes in a paper, such as providing context or reinforcing points at the end, but they do not embody the main function of evidence in supporting and persuading within an argument.