Essay Writing - the thesis statement

The thesis statement is probably the most important sentence in your paper!

It is a concise sentence that summarizes the central point of your essay or paper. It typically appears near the end of the introduction. Its purpose is to guide the reader by clearly stating the main idea that the paper will explore or argue.

Remember to:

• keep it concise
• make it contentious: don't state a fact everyone knows, make a claim that makes further evidence and analysis necessary.
• make it coherent: everything mentioned in the thesis statement should be supported and explained in the main body.

The Formula for a Thesis Statement

[Main Topic/Issue] + [Your Specific Argument/Position] + [Reasoning or Supporting Points]

• Too broad: Attempting to cover too much ground in one thesis.
• Too vague: Not clearly stating your position or claim.
• Not arguable: Making a statement that is simply a fact or generally accepted truth.
• Too complex: Overloading the thesis with multiple ideas or unclear wording.