When oversimplifying, complex matters may be misrepresented and distorted. How can you find and overcome oversimplifications in your arguments?

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Sam Easterbrook Profile
Sam Easterbrook answered
Oversimplification occurs when a point is simplified to the point of causing misrepresentation, misconception, or error. Simplifying a complex matter is not necessarily a bad thing in certain situations, but when a point is oversimplified so much so that it no longer has the original meaning or intentions, it should be avoided.
To find oversimplifications in your arguments you must plan your arguments thoroughly before you present them. Write all of your points down and read them through several times, asking yourself if anything has been oversimplified. Present it in a way so that a person who is not familiar with your topic could understand your arguments because they are presented in such a clear, well structured and informative manner.
Analyse everything from different angles, such as the view of someone who has the opposite opinion to your own. In that way, you will be able to have a in-depth and multi-perspective understanding of the matter and can prevent oversimplification. Ask yourself what an opposing view would say in return to your argument. Anticipate their response and develop your response in return so you are not tempted to oversimplify it. It is best to present your response to counter arguments and different opinions before another person even has the chance to begin an argument. This puts you in a strong position.
Present data and facts which you can use as evidence to support your ideas so that if anything has been simplified, you have hard evidence to support everything you say. This gives you strong, clear arguments which cannot be doubted, misrepresented or distorted because you have the evidence and facts clearly presented and ensures that no one can dispute your argument.
Elizabeth Lorenzo Profile
Be as thorough as possible in your explanations. Don't let anything to the imagination (unless you're a writer). Write as if the person knew nothing of which you are talking about.
I don't know whether this answers your question but this is what my teachers use to tell me and it helps.

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