Anticipating and countering opposing arguments

Anticipating and countering opposing arguments

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To anticipate a possible objection, consider the following questions:

  • Could a reasonable person draw a different conclusion from your facts or examples?
  • Might a reader question any of your assumptions?
  • Could a reader offer an alternative explanation of this issue?
  • Is there any evidence that might weaken your position?

To respond to a potential objection, consider these questions:

  • Can you concede the point to the opposition but challenge the point’s importance or usefulness?
  • Can you explain why readers should consider a new perspective or question a piece of evidence?
  • Should you explain how your position responds to contradictory evidence?
  • Can you suggest a different interpretation of the evidence?

When you write, use phrasing to signal to readers that you’re about to present an objection. Often the signal phrase can go in the lead sentence of a paragraph.

  • Critics of this view argue that . . . .
  • Some readers might point out that . . . .
  • Gray presents compelling challenges to . . . .
  • But isn’t it possible that . . . ?