The document discusses identifying and using counterarguments and refutations in writing. It defines a counterargument as an opposing idea to the writer's viewpoint. Writers include counterarguments to anticipate objections and make their own arguments seem stronger by refuting opposing views. Refutations directly address the counterargument, often using phrases like "on the contrary" or "however" to show why the counterargument is incorrect or misguided. Examples are provided of sentences containing effective counterarguments and refutations.