Final answer:
A buffer's primary purpose in communication is to establish common ground with the reader, laying the foundation for a critical discussion, especially when conveying potentially negative information. It maintains a professional and understanding tone and supports arguments with credible, specific evidence.
Step-by-step explanation:
One important goal of a buffer in communication is to establish common ground with your reader. This involves creating a connection and demonstrating understanding before delivering unpleasant news. When crafting a message, particularly one that may not be well received, it is vital to keep the audience in mind, use a style appropriate for academic English writing, and ensure that the readers can follow your logic and understand your point.
To help readers think critically about an idea and give strength to your ideas, it's useful to present credible concerns using language that fairly represents uncertainty. Phrases such as "it seems that," "it appears to me that," and "I may be wrong, but" invite the reader into a conversation without projecting authority, which can help ease into the main points that need to be communicated.
Additionally, when presenting information, especially if it may lead to a negative reaction, provide reliable information through specific facts, statistics, and examples. This adds credibility to your argument and helps in persuading the reader. Lastly, for an argument to be persuasive and not merely a rundown of bad news, it's key to avoid the obvious and support your points with strong evidence, thus inviting engagement and a hopeful outlook despite potential negative outcomes.