The reasons in an argument are the claims made in an attempt to persuade you that the conclusion is true.

The Because Test

A test that can help you to identify the reasons in a passage is the ‘because test’. Simply insert the word “because” into the passage directly before the phrase that you think is a reason. If the passage makes sense, then you’ve probably got the right section. If it doesn’t, then you haven’t.

Quote!

When you’re asked to identify the reasons in a passage, you must give direct quotations. You’re being asked to pick out a specific claims that the passage makes in attempting to prove its conclusion. If you give a rough paraphrase, then you risk changing the claim, resulting in inaccuracy in your answer and so losing you marks.