Logical Reasoning

The main point — the claim the argument is trying to establish; everything else exists to support it.

Insert 'therefore' before each candidate statement; the one that sensibly follows 'therefore' is the conclusion, while premises fit after 'because.'

Ask 'why should I believe this?' of each statement; the conclusion is the one whose support is supplied by the others (it is the claim being defended, not the support).

A statement offered as evidence or support for the conclusion; the reasons given to accept the main point.

A premise supports another claim and is offered as a reason; the conclusion is supported by the premises and is the point being argued for. Test direction of support.

A claim that is both supported by a premise and itself supports the main conclusion — it sits in the middle of the chain of reasoning.