Argument Writing Terms

Evidence refers to the information or data that supports a claim, often taken from texts or research.

You use quotes to indicate that the evidence is taken directly from the text.

A claim is a statement that asserts a belief or opinion that can be argued or debated.

A claim must be arguable, meaning it can be supported or opposed with evidence.

A non-claim is a statement that does not assert an argument or opinion, such as a fact.

You should explain how that evidence proves your point.

Counterclaims are statements that address opposing viewpoints in an argument.

A rebuttal is a response to a counterclaim, providing evidence to refute it.

The conclusion summarizes the main points and reinforces the argument made.

A thesis statement is a sentence that summarizes the main point or claim of an essay.