A Practice Note outlining how to answer a complaint in California superior court. Specifically, this Note explains how to respond to the complaint's allegations, assert defenses, compute and extend the time to answer, and serve and file the answer. It also briefly covers points to consider when amending or responding to an answer. This Note does not address specific issues regarding answers in unlawful detainer or limited jurisdiction ("small claims") actions. Nor does it directly address cross-complaints by the answering defendant against the plaintiff, co-defendants, or third parties.