Derailed

Tab in. The first statement, leading into the topic slowly. Broad generalization of things possibly relating to topic, with the intent to come back to these points later (this will not happen). Narrowing the subject matter without defining it outright. Introducing the first point, not related to those pointed out previously. Examining the given information from a particular perspective to give it the desired bias. A claim based on this observation, without which it would seem suspect. Using this claim as a foundation upon which to build towards the desired outcome. An unrelated detail that somehow backs up the first point. An editorial comment made to seem more legitimate by being bracketed by facts. Second detail used to bolster previous statement. Lead-in to second point before the first becomes belabored. The second point, delivered in such a way to seem factual. The first in a rapid series of facts meant to unbalance and impress the reader. The second in a rapid series of facts meant to unbalance and impress the reader. The third in a rapid series of facts meant to unbalance and impress the reader. An opinion or half-truth disguised as another fact. Discussion of second point using the facts and half-truth to make the statement seem plausible. Further discussion, leaning away from fact and toward the preferred bias to invite the readership to think in a like manner. Indicate image inserted to distract reader from critical thinking and display skewed statistical data in favor of intended point of view. Reference to data in image as proof of statement number two. Additional editorial comment to strengthen point of view. Hard sell idea by proposing it as only logical choice or making disparaging remark about opposition. Point number three is used as a follow-up because it has the most factual basis, putting the reader in a state of mind to think that all of the argument is backed by facts. Casually mentioned fact backing up third point. Fluff statement to make previous fact seem more casual. Observation of topic containing a fact that supports the proposed opinion. Evidence of truth of observed fact. Opinionated statement containing no facts but based on observation of topic. Reference to or quote by an authority on topic, taken out of context. Implication that quoted authority shares opinion on topic. Reminder that the quote is from a noted authority on topic, and not to be distrusted or disbelieved. Segue into unrelated fact that may or may not have any bearing on topic. Vague or seemingly unrelated fact. Clarification of how previous fact is the lynchpin of current opinionated statement (though not of the argument as a whole). Plead to reader to see enlightenment in previous assumption. Another fact to shore up statement’s defense. Connection from current course into an opening to change subject slightly. Fourth point, leading the reader onto safer territory to make the argument easier to accept as a whole. Softball majority opinion to ease reader state of mind. Piece of trivia, almost a real fact, that backs up the fourth point. Easy to digest observation, leading to opinion centering on fourth point. Slow detachment from basic argument into closing statement. Reiteration of overall opinion couched in safe terms for maximum agree-ability. Statement of position of sincerity.

General thanking of audience for time and consideration.