# Work Required to Have an Opinion This is effectively the same thing as **composing critical commentary**. How to compose a successful critical commentary: 1. You should attempt to re-express your target’s position so clearly, vividly, and fairly that your target says, “Thanks, I wish I’d thought of putting it that way.” 2. You should list any points of agreement (especially if they are not matters of general or widespread agreement). 3. You should mention anything that you have learned from your target. 4. Only then are you permitted to say so much as a word of rebuttal or criticism. --- Date: 20240707 Links to: Tags: References: * [Daniel Dennett: Tools for Critical Thinking](https://fs.blog/daniel-dennett-critical-thinking/)