In the academic world, you should know how to write a counter argument if you wish to express a point that goes against a previously stated point about a topic or question. Essentially, you should express your opposition fairly, thoroughly, and objectively. You should not compose quick sentences and then rebut your opponent immediately. Instead, you should provide reasons for holding an opposing view.
A Brief Guide on How to Write a Counter Argument
When writing an essay or paper, you make your argument. That means you propose your thesis and back it up with some reasoning and evidence. Ideally, you try to explain why your thesis is valid and true.
When writing a counter argument, you go against the suggested thesis. Similarly, you provide some reasoning to support your position. When countering an argument, you should refute the opinion of the opposition. You should also show why the opposition’s opinion is not accurate.
As such, your argument should be persuasive. It should also provide evidence to enhance credibility.
What is a Counter Argument?
The most common counter argument definition describes it as an opposing position of a stated position or argument. For instance, somebody can argue that does are the best pets compared to cats because they are social. A counter argument, in this case, can be that cats are the best pets because they are self-sufficient.
The inclusion of the opposing viewpoints in an academic paper indicates that you understand the existing positions. It shows that you considered the opposing opinions when writing your paper and you have what it takes to respond to any of them. That way, you strengthen your argument while making your paper more credible.
In the cats and dogs counter argument example, each position has some reasoning behind it. However, the goal should be to provide more supporting evidence to convince the readers to take your side.
A widely used counter argument synonym is a rebuttal. However, it’s also called a protestation or disinclination. All these words hint at the counter argument meaning because they describe what it’s all about.
How to Write a Counter Argument Quickly
You probably want to know how you can come up with an argument that opposes the stated position fast. Well, the first step is to know counter argument starters. These are the signs that a writer uses to start a rebuttal. They let the readers know that the writer is expressing a different or opposite view of the thesis. Without the proper use of counter argument sentence starters, the paper appears incoherent and contradictory.
Any argument starts with a word, a phrase, or a sentence. A starter should be used to show that the following statement is not the view of the author. Examples of starters include words like “However”, “But”, and “Similarly”. Although starters can sometimes be complex sentences, the best counter argument examples include some or most of these words.
How to Start a Counter Argument
The first and perhaps, the most important thing is to know how to introduce a counter argument. This should be easy. Start by expressing the opinion that you are refuting. State that it’s a view to subtly hint to your readers that it’s neither a truth nor a fact. Let the readers know that you are stating the views of another person.
Here are examples of how to start a counter argument sentence:
- It’s often supposed that…
- Some people argue that…
- It might look as if…
Once you’ve started counter argument essay with the above phrases, you can now use your counter argument words.
Another approach is to start with a question. For instance, you can say the following:
- But, is it not true that…?
- Wouldn’t…?
You can also use the opposing views of other thinkers or writers to start expressing yours. For instance:
- However, Socrates argued that…
- But, Stone wrote that…
- On the other hand, Matthew stated that…
Use Counter Argument Transitions
Now that you know how to start counter argument, you should learn to use transitions. Using the right transitions will make your argument flow smoothly. Thus, counter argument transition words make it easier for readers to understand your position.
Examples of transitions that you can use in your essay include:
- Similarly, Also, In the same way – These words show similarity in an argument.
- However, Notwithstanding, On the other hand, Still yet, In contrast – These words show exception or contrast.
- Meanwhile, Afterwards, Subsequently – These show time.
- Indeed and Without question – These words show emphasis.
- For instance and For example – These are used to show examples.
- Consequently, Accordingly, and Thus – These indicate cause and effect.
- In brief, Finally, and In conclusion – Used to conclude.
- Equally, Additionally and Furthermore – Used to show additional evidence or support.
Any good counter argument essay example will have some of these words. That’s because they make an argument easy to follow and understand.
What to Include in a Counter Argument Paragraph
You can’t claim to know how to write counter argument if you don’t know what should go into every paragraph of your essay. Composing this essay entails more than just identifying and refuting the opposing position. You have to respond to the opposing view or position objectively and with supporting evidence.
Perhaps, you should start by drafting a counter argument paragraph outline to ensure that you do this properly. Here is what your paragraph outline should guide you to do:
- Identify the opposing argument
- Respond to an opposing argument by explaining why it is weak, incomplete, or illogical
- Provide examples or evidence to prove that the opposing argument is weak, incomplete, or illogical
- Close your paragraph with a statement that your argument superior and emphasizing why it is sound and logical to the opposing one.
When presenting your argument, be as objective as possible. Also, be fair and thorough when explaining why the opposing argument is weak, illogical, and incomplete. Prove that you have considered all options and sides. If you must use satire and sarcasm, master the rhetoric art carefully.
You’re no longer asking, what’s a counter argument at this point. That’s because this guide provides the tips and hints that you need to compose the argument. However, you might want to take a look at a good counter argument example essay to understand what you’re required to do. You can ask your educator to share a good example to guide you. Alternatively, use reliable online resources to find and read a good sample essay. However, don’t copy or present the essay as your work because that would amount to plagiarism. It’s always better to hire a paper writer who will craft a custom project for you.
