Learn To Argue Effectively

Brief recap:
argument only makes sense when the subject is an opinion or a proposed action that can actually be influenced.

How argument works:

First, know the subject. Arguing without information is just verbal movement.
Second, understand the other side. If you do not grasp what the other person believes, you are arguing with a version you invented.
Third, establish common ground. Fighting over points of agreement is how arguments collapse before they begin.
Fourth, isolate the real disagreement. Once the exact fault line is clear, aim evidence and reasoning there and nowhere else.

Argument is a tool that wastes time when used carelessly. Used with discipline it changes minds and improves decisions.