Begging the question means assuming the conclusion. In this type of argument, the conclusion that is sought to be proved is included in the initial premises/reason of the argument.
Begging the question or assuming the answer is a logical fallacy that occurs when the conclusion of an argument is used as a premise of that same argument; i.e., the premises would not work if the conclusion wasn't already assumed to be true
Logical Form
Claim X assumes X is true.
Therefore, claim X is true.
Examples
A: God exists
B: How do you know?
A: The scriptures say so
B: How do you know the scriptures are true?
A: Because scriptures were written by God
Variations of Proof that God Exists
The order and magnificence of the world is evidence of God's Creation.
Therefore, we know that God exists.
Somebody has created the universe
The creator of the universe is God
More examples - Begging the Question
If drunken driving was not illegal, it would not be prohibited by law
The reason that there's such a big demand for iPhones is because everyone wants one
Interviewer: Your reference looks good, but I need references
Candidate: Keshav can vouch for me
Interviewer: How do I trust Keshav?
Candidate: I will vouch for Keshav
Author: A S Prasad – Critical Thinking Trainer and Visiting Faculty. Lead author of the textbook “Critical and Analytical Thinking” (Cengage)