Evidence - AP® English Definition

Evidence is the information a writer uses to support their ideas or arguments. In AP English, students learn that evidence can include facts, quotes, examples, statistics, or personal experiences that help prove a point.

Writers use evidence to make their arguments stronger and more convincing. In essays and analysis, students are expected to choose relevant evidence from texts and explain how it supports their thesis. Good use of evidence is key to success in AP English writing tasks.

Example of evidence in an AP English text

In 'Letter from Birmingham Jail' by Martin Luther King Jr., King uses historical and biblical references as evidence.

For example, he refers to the actions of early Christians and Socrates to show that civil disobedience has a long and respected history. This helps support his argument that breaking unjust laws can be morally right.