Crafting a Thesis Statement

Definition: A thesis statement is a sentence or two in your introduction that presents the main argument or point of your essay.

Purpose: It tells the reader the topic of your essay, what you are going to say about it, and provides a preview of how you will make your point.

• Clear: It should be specific and unambiguous.

• Concise: It should be brief yet comprehensive.

• Arguable: It should present a point that could be challenged or opposed, not a simple fact.

• Relevant: It should be directly related to the essay’s topic.

• Focused: It should not be too broad, covering a scope manageable within the essay.

• Start with a Question: Begin with the question your essay will answer. Your thesis statement is your answer to this question.

• Make a Claim: Express a clear point of view rather than stating a fact or summarizing a topic. It should be something you can back up with evidence.

• Be Specific: Narrow down your thesis statement to be as specific as possible. Avoid vague or overly broad statements.

• Include Reasons: If possible, include the reasons why your claim is valid. This sets the direction for your essay.

• Refine Your Thesis: As you write, refine your thesis statement to ensure it accurately reflects the argument you are presenting.

Weak: “Social media has an impact on society.”

Strong: “Social media significantly affects political and personal relationships by enabling misinformation spread, creating echo chambers, and reducing face-to-face interactions.”

Weak: “Climate change is a serious problem.”

Strong: “Immediate actions against climate change are critical to preserve biodiversity, prevent extreme weather catastrophes, and ensure sustainable agricultural practices.”

• Avoid Generic or Obvious Statements: Your thesis should offer a fresh perspective or argument.

• Revise as Needed: Your thesis can evolve as you develop new insights while writing your essay.

• Seek Feedback: Don't hesitate to get opinions from teachers or peers to refine your thesis statement.