4.Validating and Supporting Arguments If a proposition or idea is not supported with evidence, then it is not substantiated. In academic writing, referencing provides necessary evidence to validate, support and substantiate claims. Evidence needs to be accessible so that it can be checked to withstand the critical scrutiny of others. All referencing is designed to provide a standardised framework for this checking and validation to happen. Remember: If you make a claim, assertion or argument, you need to substantiate it with a valid reference.