Comparative reasoning

Definition

Comparative reasoning ranks options against each other along shared, named criteria — better, worse, or equal — and shows its work by saying which criteria count and how the options fare on each. Its conclusion is a ranking, not yet a decision.

Memory hook

“Rank options by named criteria.”

What it sounds like

• On cost and on durability, the oak beats the pine.
• Weaker in the wind, but far easier to mend.
• All told, the north route is the better of the two.