What should you always consider when drafting an argument?

When drafting an argument, considering the audience and potential counterarguments is crucial for several reasons. Understanding the audience allows the writer to tailor the argument to their values, beliefs, and level of understanding, making the argument more persuasive and engaging. The writer can anticipate the audience's reactions and tailor their language and examples to resonate better with them.

Addressing counterarguments is equally important since it demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Acknowledging opposing viewpoints not only strengthens the writer's credibility but also provides an opportunity to refute these points, thereby reinforcing the original argument. This approach shows that the writer has thoughtfully considered different perspectives, which can enhance the overall persuasiveness of the argument.

In contrast, focusing solely on aspects like the length of the essay, writing style and tone, or the number of sources used might not effectively enhance the argument itself. While these elements are important in their own right, they do not directly impact the core structure and effectiveness of the argument as much as understanding the audience and counterarguments does.