SAT Reading & Writing: Counterclaims and Concessions in Arguments
27+ practice questions in Praczo
The concept, explained
- 1
A counterclaim is an opposing argument that a writer acknowledges and then responds to.
- 2
A concession admits that the opposing view has some merit while maintaining the main argument.
- 3
Authors use counterclaims to strengthen their argument by showing they have considered alternatives.
- 4
Signal words: "while it is true that," "admittedly," "granted," "some argue that" — these introduce a counterclaim.
- 5
After a concession signal, the author usually pivots back with "however," "nevertheless," or "but."
- ✗ Thinking a concession means the author agrees with the opposing view — concessions acknowledge, not endorse.
- ✗ Misidentifying the main argument when a passage opens with a counterclaim before the author's own position.
SAT-style practice
A passage states: "Admittedly, renewable energy can be expensive to install. However, the long-term savings and environmental benefits far outweigh the initial costs." The sentence beginning with "Admittedly" serves to:
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