How Do I Write a Rebuttal Statement?

By Staff Writer | Last Updated August 4, 2015

The best way to write a rebuttal statement is to start with a strong thesis statement that will present the person’s argument and defend the position on a statement or an accusation made against him. A rebuttal gives a person the chance to present personal opinions on a situation to help impact or change another person’s point of view.

According to Purdue University, the people who will need to be reached with a rebuttal statement are those who are not sure either way if they agree with the rebuttal or the original statement. The people who are already on the side of the rebuttal will need little convincing to remain aligned with the position. Those who completely disagree will likely never be swayed. Those who need to be convinced with the rebuttal are people who sit on the fence with their decisions.

There are three parts to a rebuttal: the opponent’s argument, the position of the one writing the rebuttal and the specifics of the counterargument. First, cover the basics of the opponent’s argument. Let the reader know what parts will be refuted. Make the nature of the disagreement clear, and then provide the reader with evidence to back up the counterargument.