Please help. I need help with this English question.

Question

Where do I put my counterargument for in my university argumentative essay? Do I put it in the first body paragraph, second, third? Or do I put it after my warrant in paragraph one?

Answer 1

By "counterargument" I believe you are talking about the opposite or opposing point of view from the one you are arguing for in your essay. First of all--good work! Many students, even in college, forget about this part of a persuasive/argumentative essay, though frankly addressing opposition is a crucial factor in convincing readers of your point of view. However, you don't want to make that counterargument too prominent. Begin the paper by stating your thesis and presenting your evidence, backed by credible sources, in the body of the essay. After your key points is the place to address opposition. I like to start off by building common ground, for example:  "I know many students and some parents believe we should keep soda machines at our school, but I think we can agree that promoting good health among our student body is vitally important." Not the greatest example, but you get the idea. After addressing the opposition is a perfect time for your summary paragraph--restating your key points, and wrapping up a conclusion.