This box lives at How To Do Research > The Research Process >Counterarguments & Missing Information
It is included on the Counterarguments & Missing Information page of the Research Process Canvas Module
Counterarguments
In an argumentative research paper, it's important to show that you've thoughtfully considered multiple perspectives. One way to do this is by including a counterargument section--a space where you acknowledge possible limitations, challenges, and concerns to your argument--and then provide thoughtful responses.
RESEARCH TIP
AI Prompt: My thesis statement is [thesis statement here]. Can you suggest some counterarguments or alternative perspectives that I should consider including?
Note: Some instructors do not allow the use of generative AI, so be sure to check your course guidelines. Review AI-generated suggestions for relevance and bias.
Argument
- Therapy pets should be allowed on college campuses because they can help reduce stress levels.
Counterarguments
- The cost of pet care could increase tuition.
- Students with pet allergies wouldn't be able to use parts of the campus that had therapy pets.
Solutions for the Counterarguments
- Therapy pets would only be allowed in some dorms.
- Students in dorms with therapy pets would have to pay a small fee for the cost of pet care.
This box lives at How To Do Research > The Research Process >Counterarguments & Missing Information
It is included on the Counterarguments & Missing Information page of the Research Process Canvas Module
Identify Information Gaps
Review your sources for missing information. Ask yourself:
-
Are my sources current?
Am I using the most recent research? In fast-changing fields like medicine and technology, sources can become outdated within a few years. -
Are they academic or fact-based?
These lend credibility to your argument. -
Did I include statistical sources?
They offer data to strengthen your points.
Where Are We?
We are still at step four of the research process: refining by identifying counterarguments.
Refining strategies:
- Creating a research question
- Developing a thesis statement
- Identifying counterarguments
Counterarguments:
- Recognize multiple perspectives and challenges to your argument
- Provide thoughtful responses or rebuttals in your counterargument section
Up Next:
The next modules will explore additional steps in the research process. You will learn how to search in the library, evaluate & save sources, and integrate citations into your assignments.
AI Notice: This tutorial was created by VSCS librarians, with AI editing assistance from Microsoft 365 Co-Pilot, Enterprise