Counter arguments or opposing points are an essential part of any academic paper, apart from case studies. The set of opposing points helps you to revalidate your arguments and highlight their significance in the area of your study. However, developing these opposing ideas is easier said than done. You have to be careful that you do not overdo it yet not make vague oppositions. If you are in the dark about how to write a counter argument, this blog can be of great help to you. Here you will get complete guidance on developing a counter argument right from the stage of its inception to revision. Plus, you will find multiple examples to understand the content in detail.
What Is The Counter Argument?
An old saying goes if you are given 4 hours to cut a tree with a saw, spend the first 2 hours to sharpen it, and then you can use the tool to cut the tree in 30 minutes. This rule applies everywhere. Similarly, if you what to know how to write a counter argument, clarify your ideas to absorb the process quickly. To say in a few words, writing a counter-argument is the act of recognizing the standpoints, opposing it with an argument, and reaffirming it with a logical solution. You can use a counter-argument as a usual academic progression in argumentative essays. It helps to highlight your understanding of the subject and its aspects through an argument.
How to Write Counter Argument Quickly?
To begin a counter argument, you must make use of apparent signs to tell your readers that you are about to share a different view of your thesis. However, if you chose not to use a counter argument starter, the consequences will be quite negative. Your paper will emerge as contradictory and incoherent.
Typically, you can start your counter-argument with the help of a sentence, phrase, or word. It indicates that the statements that trail along are not based on the author’s point of view. Some common counter argument starters are “But,” “However,” “Similarly,” etc.
Also Read: Good Argumentative Essay Topics That You Must Consider
However, if you want to use complex whole sentences, then you may choose to build your sentences in any of the three ways:
1. Articulate your outlook as if you are disproving a view
Some common ways of disapproving a view are:
Format:
Introductory counter phrases ð counter arguments
Example:
- Several people argue/think/suppose that
- It is often imagined/supposed that
- One could easily think/suppose/imagine that
- It might appear/look as if
2. Initiate your counter argument through a question
Here are two ways you can start your counter argument with a question.
Format:
Interrogative words ð counter arguments
Example:
- But isn’t it accurate that
- Is not/Does not/Would not
3. Highlight what specific writers/thinkers have spoken opposing your point of views
Here are some popular methods of opposing your point of view:
Format:
Phrase consisting of the name of the specific writer ð counter argument
Example:
- Then again, Socrates argues that…
- However, Watson has written…
- Matthew takes the point that…
- Mila is of the belief that…
Read more: What is an Argumentative Essay Outline and How to Write It?
Where to Put Counterarguments?
The advantage of using a counter-argument in an essay is that you can just drop in your counterargument anywhere in the essay. However, it mostly appears in the following regions:
· As Part of Your Introduction
Wonder how to write a counter argument in the introduction of an essay? Well, you can just do it by placing the counter-argument before you propose your thesis. Here, the purpose of your essay is to focus on the existence of a different view.
· As a Section or Paragraph Just After Your Introduction
At this point, you can explain the expected response or standard point before moving away to develop your own.
· As a Quick Move within A Paragraph
Here, you can imagine a counterargument as a transition to a sub-area, or a part of the sub-area of the paragraph that includes the argument
· As a Section or Paragraph Just Before The Conclusion Of Your Essay
Here, you can include the counter argument quite subtly. For example, you can state what someone might object to your argument if one is given a chance.
Wherever you might put your counter argument, you must never overdo it. Placing your counter arguments in the right quantities will add a zing to your essay. But, too much of it can spoil the taste. It may murk up your main ideas, make them vague or hint that you are undecided.
Can You Use Counterargument in Pre-Writing and Revising?
Counter arguments can easily be a part of your pre-writing process. However, you may not find its physical evidence at that stage. Most often, you may need to follow Socrates’ formula. He once stated that you may call your ‘thinking’ as good if you question your ‘thinking’ all the time. It is all in your mind. Good thinking constantly questions itself, as Socrates observed long ago.
This thought helps in the development of all counter-arguments and makes the counter arguments stronger. But, you need to give a break to these second guesses while you develop your arguments and reuse them while drafting the solution. For example, you can think how an individual with a sharp knowledge of the subject might reasonably disagree with you or see your points differently. When you can think of a clever disagreement, you boast of an arguable idea.
Of course, you need not have that disagreeing reader in your head all the time. When you start writing your essay, ask some people what they think of topic X or your perspective about X and you will come across useful disagreeing remarks somewhere in class discussion and assigned readings. If you are aware of this disagreement and how it is used in your assigned readings, you will sharpen your counter argument thinking skills. Moreover, when you find the counter-argument that is more factual or compelling than your thesis, think of ways to turn it into your main argument and your thesis into the counterpoint.
Nonetheless, if you have been successful in drafting your essay or any other form of assignment without any counter-argument, think of at least two points and imagine the ways to incorporate them in your paper before revising it.
Transition Words To Introduce A Counter Argument
When you think of how to write a counter argument and where to put it, keep in mind the transitional sections of your document. Here are some transitional words that you can use to present your counter-arguments and also in other parts of your essay.
· Phrases to illustrate the similarity
In the same way, Also, Similarly, etc.
· Words to demonstrate dissimilarity/exemption
However, on the other hand, but, notwithstanding, in contrast, still yet, etc.
· Terms to show Order/Sequence
First, second, next, finally, etc.
· Expressions to show time
Afterward, subsequently, meanwhile, etc.
· Lexis to show examples
For example, for instance, etc.
· Words to show emphasis
Indeed, without question, etc.
· Words to Show Cause and Effect
Accordingly, consequently, thus, etc.
· Words to demonstrate additional support or evidence
Additionally, Equally, Furthermore
· Words to bring to a close
Finally, in brief, in conclusion
Also read: Learn How To Write A Dissertation Outline In 10 Simple Steps
How to Write a Counter Argument Paragraph?
Do you get bothered by thoughts like what is the outlook of a counterargument paragraph or how to write a counter argument paragraph? Well, it is time to let your worries run free. When you think of writing a counter argument, you don’t just identify the opposing position, you respond to it as well. Here is an outline of what you have to include in a counter argument:
- Recognize what the contrasting argument is
- Respond to the opposite by emphasizing why you feel the point is irrational, weak, or incomplete
- Give evidence or examples that highlight why the opposing arguments are illogical or incomplete.
- Finish the paragraph by stating your argument and then accentuate why your line of reasoning is more logical or sensible than the opposing argument.
How Should You Present a Counter Argument?
When you present a counterargument, use an objective, thorough, and fair expression to put your thoughts across. However, do not write a short sentence and then refute it. It may not work the best for you, or become the most suitable approach to showcase your counter points. The points become more believable when you include the reasons why someone might have that point of view.
For most excellent results contribute a few sentences or even a whole paragraph to giving your counter-argument. Taking this step will help you in the following way:
- Prove to your reader that you have considered many alternatives and weighed all sides of the question.
- Make each word count to answer the counter argument quite easily. It is much easier to suggest the situation you are opposing and then affirming your counter argument after it. This flow makes it simpler for your readers to go after your line of thought.
- Expressing the counter arguments fairly and objectively. Would the person reading your essay accept your perspective of the statement without picking offense? Don’t use offensive language or words in your supporting or opposing arguments that can hurt your reader’s sentiment. Your readers can easily pick on them.
- Every reader has or builds a point of view while reading your essay on the specific topic. Find out how to give your reader’s opinions the benefit of the doubt even if you can anticipate that their views are wide of the mark. It allows you to persuade readers to your side of thoughts.
- Similar to practical life, sarcasm and satire are influential tools when it comes to countering arguments as well. However, if you feel bound to use them use them, master the art of rhetoric writing first.
Lear How to Write A Counter Argument with Examples
Following are the two examples of counter arguments that you can use in your writing:
Example 1: Counter arguments on the topic – Smoking Must Be Allowed on Campuses
Admittedly, many students would prefer to smoke on an academic institution campus. Some readers may precisely argue that if smoking on campus is not unlawful, then it must be allowed. However, passive smoke may hurt those who are suffering from health issues like asthma and COPD. It puts these people’s life at risk.
Read More: Get Complete Details on How to Write an Assignment Introduction
Example 2: Counter idea on the idea – Animal Testing Must Be Allowed
Some individuals say that making use of animals as tests matters for the development of health products is justifiable. In all fairness, animal testing has been a part of the play in the past to help the invention of several vaccines; smallpox and rabies are a few notable ones. However, experimenting on animals for developing beautification items causes unwanted pain to animals. Moreover, these products will not be for the use of animals and misuse of rights. However, there are easily available options apart from animal testing. To illustrate, in place of using animals, researchers can perform tests on human volunteers. In addition, Carol Westmoreland (2020) recommends that alternative techniques to animal research are being designed. Particularly, researchers can now use skin built from cells for cosmetic experimentation. When such practical alternatives to animal testing subsist, then the system causes unwarranted torment to animals and should not immediately be stopped.
Conclusion
Discussed is the complete guide on how to write a counter argument. By now you must know what you must do to create a counterargument paragraph, how you must start a counter argument, or when and where to use it. However, if you still lack ideas to develop a counter point for your assignment or don’t have the proper skills to make a powerful standpoint, connect with us immediately.
