Counter-Arguing

• Counter-arguing is a strategy wherein you anticipate objections to your primary argument, and then argue against them to enhance the power of your position.
• Utilising this method shows you have thought deeply about the issue at hand and have considered different viewpoints, which can impress evaluators.
• Here’s how to use counter-arguing:
  1. Identify potential opposition: What objections could someone have to your argument? Write these down.
  2. Decide on your counter-arguments: How would you address each of these objections? Determine points that directly address these issues.
  3. Incorporate counter-arguments into your essay: It’s significant to place these objections and counter-arguments correctly within your essay. They can be part of a paragraph or a separate one, usually immediately following your initial argument.
• Keep your tone respectful and avoid sounding defensive when presenting counter-arguments. The objective is to show that different views exist, but yours remains the most compelling.
• Counter-arguments are not a sign of weakness. Instead, they demonstrate maturity in your thinking and ability to consider other viewpoints.
• Remember, a strong counter-argument includes not only the argument but also important evidence that supports it.
• Practice refining your skills in counter-arguing – you won’t just use it in English Language papers, but in many other aspects of critical thinking and debate too.
• Lastly, revising previous example essays can provide useful insight into how to effectively incorporate counter-arguing. Analyze where the author has positioned counter-arguments, how they’ve addressed them, and how they’ve supported their counter-arguments.