A reflective image of the University of Notre Dame campus
A reflective image of the University of Notre Dame campus Adapted from a photo by Annie Maher on Unsplash Note from the Editors

Rebuttal

Rebuttals, also known as counterarguments, focus on responding to an existing argument, in an effort to persuade readers to see the weaknesses or limitations of that argument. Rebuttal essays typically summarize the existing argument, then articulate a thesis that challenges, provides an alternative to, or critiques the argument of another person or organization, using reasoning and examples to develop the key points of response.