Final answer:
In an argument, the final assertion is the 'conclusion' and the statements supporting it are the 'premises'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion at the end of an argument is known as the conclusion, and the statements that come before it, which serve to justify or support the conclusion, are called the premises. This fundamental structure is what defines an argument in logic and critical thinking. In philosophy and other disciplines that rely on argumentation, it is crucial to be able to distinguish these components in order to analyze the effectiveness and validity of the argument presented. Often, arguments may include indicator words such as "therefore" or "since" to help identify the conclusion and premises, respectively. Understanding the relationship between the premises and the conclusion is essential in evaluating whether the argument is logically sound and whether the premises provide adequate support for the conclusion.