In an argumentative research paper, the writer should avoid straw man arguments because they: a. are difficult for readers to follow b expose weaknesses in the writer's claim c. show that the writer didn't understand a counterclaim d. lead to an unrelated subject

The answer is A because a "straw man" argument are what people consider all over the place

C. Show that the writer didn't understand the counterclaim

Explanation:

A straw man argument is a fallicious argument that distorts an opposing stance to make it easier to attack. It gives a distorted version of the initial argument to something that may not even be related. Since you would need to include different stances in an argumentative research paper, you need to understand both sides of the argument. If you try to use a stray man it would show that you don't understand what the arguing point really is, because you are talking about something else.

the rhetoric device being used to persuade the audience is pathos.

i feel like it is actually b.