Top 10 Ways to Fail a Philosophy Assignment

1. Present no argument, or just report, express feelings, comment or string together quotes.
   
   
2. Assert conclusions or judgments without evidentiary or logical support.
   
   
3. Use sarcasm, ridicule or attack personal motives instead of applying rational criticism.
   
   
4. Deny presumptions or conclusions rather than demonstrate that they are false.
   
   
5. Use incomplete, ambiguous or incoherent sentences.
   
   
6. Fail to cite primary sources, or rely upon dubious or vague or autobiographical claims in support of your thesis (conclusion).
   
   
7. Digress or stray off-topic and discuss related but irrelevant matters.
   
   
8. Deviate from format restrictions or submit work after deadline or include attachments.
   
   
9. Be dishonest: cheat, plagiarize, or lie to your instructor.
   
   
10. Reason using fallacies or invalid or weak patterns of inference.