Consider this claim: Desktop computers are a better option for students than laptops, which usually have less power and lower-resolution displays. Now consider how someone might argue against this. Which sentence presents the strongest and most reasonable counterclaim to the above claim?
Laptop computers fit in most backpacks and bags, so they are the better option for busy students who need computers at home and at school.
Students need top-notch equipment to excel, and desktop computers don’t fit the bill because they are completely out of date.
Laptops may have less power and shorter lives than desktops, but their popularity and higher prices prove that they are the better option.
The strongest and most reasonable counterclaim is: “Laptop computers fit in most backpacks and bags, so they are the better option for busy students who need computers at home and at school.”
Explanation: This counterclaim directly addresses the practical needs of students. It highlights the importance of portability, which is a crucial factor in a student’s daily life. Unlike desktops, laptops can be easily transported, making them more suitable for students who require mobility between different locations, such as home and school. This argument effectively challenges the claim that desktops are better by focusing on the real-world necessities of students.