Contention

Contention writing involves formulating a clear, debatable thesis statement or main argument (the contention) and supporting it with evidence, warrants, and impacts to persuade an audience or win a debate. To write an effective contention, state your arguable position clearly, back it with credible sources and logical reasoning (warrants), explain why it matters (impacts), and maintain focus on proving your point throughout your text.

Key Elements of a Contention

Contention/Claim: This is the main point or argument you are trying to make; it must be a controversial, arguable statement, not just a fact.Tag: A short, clear summary phrase that introduces the argument, similar to a topic sentence.Warrant: The reason or explanation that clarifies why your claim is true and connects it to the larger issue.Evidence: Factual information, examples, or quotes from credible sources that support your warrant.Impact: The consequence or significance of your argument, answering why it matters to the audience or judge. How to Write a Contention

1. Identify the Topic: Understand the prompt or issue you are responding to.
2. Take a Stance: Determine your personal position or opinion on the prompt.
3. Formulate a Clear Claim: State your arguable opinion as a concise, focused claim.
4. Provide a Warrant: Explain the reasoning behind your claim.
5. Offer Evidence: Support your warrant with facts, quotes, or examples.
6. Explain the Impact: Show why your argument is important and matters to the audience.
7. Maintain Focus: Ensure that every paragraph and idea in your writing links back to your main contention.
8. Address Counterarguments: Consider and effectively refute any opposing viewpoints to strengthen your position.

Example

Contention: “While social media offers connection, it negatively impacts developing social skills by promoting superficial interactions over deep, face-to-face communication”.Claim: Social media negatively affects social skills.Warrant: It encourages shallow engagement and limits opportunities for complex, nuanced interactions.Evidence: Research on adolescent development and social media usageImpact: A decline in crucial interpersonal communication skills, which are vital for personal and professional success.

AI responses may include mistakes.

[1] https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/study-support/study-resources/study-support-guides/developing-an-argument

[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/GetStudying/comments/1imwj3g/how_to_identify_a_contention_in_an_essay_and_use/

[3] youtube/v=sJ6olgDtVBI

[4] youtube/v=LrDg6xbcrUw

[5] https://www.twinkl.com/resource/developing-a-contention-in-response-to-a-topic-au-l-1713415418

[6] https://www.vcestudyguides.com/blog/the-link-between-your-contention-and-topic-sentences-in-relation-to-the-prompt

[7] https://www.evergreentutoringservices.com.au/2025/08/18/how-to-write-a-contention/

[8] https://www.dymockstutoring.edu.au/how-to-write-an-introductory-paragraph/

[9] https://atarnotes.com/articles/top-tips-to-help-you-conquer-your-text-response-essays