In this article, the authors describe an acrostic-based mnemonic device they created to aid students in constructing and supporting arguments in a manner consistent with the claim-data-warrant model. They call it the "IDOL writing device": I-"I"dentify a specific claim, D-"D"evelop an argument to support your claim, O-"O"ffer an example(s) that supports your argument, L-"L"ink the example(s) to the claim. This device highlights the need for students to make a specific claim and further describe the claim by providing additional details. It also reminds students to incorporate examples from their experiences, observations, survey responses, or other forms of data. Finally, it asks students to explain how the examples connect to the claim being made. The authors use the device in a variety of ways during in-class exercises or homework assignments. The device can also be used in peer review exercises by asking students to identify the elements in other students' writing. Using the IDOL writing device allows students to remember the crucial elements of making and supporting arguments in formal writing by introducing academic reasoning. Once students have learned to incorporate each of these elements into their writing, they can then focus on improving the content and quality of their arguments.