Four Step Refutation

Here’s the basic outline of a Rogerian argument:

1. Present the issue. Introduce the problem and explain why it should be addressed.
2. Summarize the opposing arguments. State their points and discuss situations in which their points can be valid.
3. State your points.
4. State the benefits of adopting your points.

A weak argument is a non-deductive argument that fails to provide probable support for its conclusion.

1. Step One: Signal. Identify the claim you are answering.
2. Step Two: State. Make your (counter) claim.
3. Step Three: Support. Reference evidence or explain the justification.
4. Step Four: Summarize. Explain the importance of your argument.

The Turn Back concede its force and complicate your idea accordingly—restate your thesis in a more exact, qualified, or nuanced way that takes account of the objection, or start a new section in which you consider your topic in light of it.

A child may argue for a dog. The parents remind the child his sister is allergic to dogs. The boy uses the counterargument that she has been around some dogs without any problems. He is ready for each argument against the dog, perhaps stating there are breeds of dogs that are hypoallergenic.

introductory paragraph

The thesis statement usually appears near the beginning of a paper. It can be the first sentence of an essay, but that often feels like a simplistic, unexciting beginning. It more frequently appears at or near the end of the first paragraph or two.

Example: Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are the best type of sandwich because they are versatile, easy to make, and taste good. In this persuasive thesis statement, you see that I state my opinion (the best type of sandwich), which means I have chosen a stance.