Winning arguments requires subtlety and skill, Its an art form all its own. Becoming the master of this skill requires practice and a proper mind set.

There are many reasons for wanting to learn how to win arguments. It could be that you are tired of always coming out on the short end after arguing with your spouse.  Maybe you just want to be more persuasive in your everyday dealings with the people around you.

What ever your reasons are, the main thing is that losing an argument is embarrassing. It leaves you with a sick feeling inside, A loss of self esteem and a diminishing of your reputation among your fellows. 

An argument according to Webster's is "a heated exchange of conflicting views". Having been in an argument or two you probably noticed that logical thought has little to do with the exchange. Emotions rule in this kind of discussion and knowing how to tame your opponents emotions is the key to controlling the flow of the argument. If you are not able to control the emotional flow in the argument things will soon get out of hand. Turning into more of a shouting match than an exchange of ideas, whoever can yell the loudest will usually win. Establishing control of the discussion is paramount to start your opponent saying "yes".  

Much of our brains thought processes happen sub-consciously, without any real notice from our conscious mind. We walk, eat, brush our teeth and drive a car using thought strings that function sub-consiously. So also, we develop our feelings sub-consciously. As I've said before, our feelings or emotions are what drive us during an argument. One of the best strategies for winning arguments is to get your opponent to start saying "yes".

Once your opponent starts saying yes his sub-conscious mind will pick up on the yes answers and will cause a favorable emotional response to any new plausible ideas that are presented. Making it easier for your opponent to accept your point of view.

Establish control of the discussion by presenting points were you mutually agree. Be sure to include emotionally charged words to make the links and draw you opponent to your ideas emotionally.

Start you opponent saying yes to spur their sub-consuious to work with you. This will ty in naturally with your efforts to gain control of the argument.

Now tie everthing together by outlining how your idea will help your opponent gain what they need and you will soon find that you've won your argument.