Skip to content

Toulmin Model — Quick Guide

A visual, dark‑mode overview of the six parts: Claim, Data (Grounds), Warrant, Backing, Qualifier, and Rebuttal.

Claim Data / Grounds Warrant Backing Qualifier Rebuttal

Structure Diagram

Toulmin Model Diagram Diagram showing how Data supports Claim through a Warrant with Backing, plus a Qualifier and possible Rebuttal. DATA / GROUNDS Evidence, facts, examples Answers: “What do you have to go on?” WARRANT Principle that links data to claim Answers: “Why do the data justify the claim?” BACKING Support for the warrant Disciplinary theory, methods, authority CLAIM Conclusion you’re asking audience to accept “Therefore…” Q (Qualifier) REBUTTAL / COUNTERARGUMENT Exceptions & conditions that limit the claim

Components

Claim

The conclusion or position you want the audience to accept.

Ex: The city should add protected bike lanes downtown.

Data / Grounds

Evidence supporting the claim: facts, statistics, examples, expert testimony.

Ex: Streets with protected lanes see 40–60% fewer accidents.

Warrant

The underlying principle that connects data to claim—often implicit.

Ex: Policies that reduce accidents improve public safety.

Backing

Additional support that validates the warrant (methods, theories, authoritative sources).

Ex: Traffic-safety research shows separated lanes lower crash rates.

Qualifier

Indicates the strength or scope of the claim (e.g., “probably,” “in most cases”).

Ex: Likely to reduce accidents in dense downtown corridors.

Rebuttal / Counterargument

Recognizes exceptions or conditions where the claim may not hold.

Ex: Winter maintenance costs may offset some safety gains.

Mini Annotated Example

Claim: Schools should start later.

Data: Districts that shifted to 8:45–9:00 a.m. saw higher attendance and grades.

Warrant: Better sleep and attendance lead to improved academic outcomes.

Backing: Medical associations recommend later start times for adolescents.

Qualifier: In most districts with adequate bus capacity…

Rebuttal: Rural routes or after‑school jobs may require different schedules.