Developing a Thesis and an Argument
Developing a Thesis and an Argument
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A thesis is the main point that you are trying to communicate based on analysis of your gathered information. A thesis summarizes the meaning you are adding. and it is developed through a process of finding patterns in information that you find.
Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements (Purdue Owl)
Developing Strong Thesis Statements (Arguments) (Purdue Owl)
Writing a Thesis and Making an Argument (University of Iowa)
NOTE: If you present findings in a way other than a traditional paper/essay, your thesis may be presented differently or perhaps not explicitly. Regardless, you should have a thesis - even if it is behind-the-scenes - that focuses and organizes your work.
Creating an Outline Based on Your Thesis/Argument
Creating an Outline Based on Your Thesis/Argument
Defining Your Topic - Introduction
Start by introducing your topic, communicating to your audience why the topic is important, and providing enough background information to allow your audience to understand the analysis that follows. This is also the logical place for your thesis.
Providing Body Analysis
Providing Body Analysis
All academic research demands analysis. Some projects lend themselves well to a cause/effect structure ("What caused hip-hop to emerge and what are some of the effects its had on American culture?), while other assignments require a pro/con format ("What are the positive/negative aspects of stem cell research?). This is where you will be heavily using evidence to support your thesis.
Offering Concluding Thoughts - Conclusion
Offering Concluding Thoughts - Conclusion
Your conclusion allows you to demonstrate that you have effectively synthesized the information you found, presenting your findings in a way that clearly supports your thesis.
Sample questions to ask yourself
Sample questions to ask yourself
What is _______?
Why is _______ an important issue?
What background information is necessary to understand _______?
What are the different types of _______?
Sample questions to ask yourself:
Sample questions to ask yourself:
What are the causes of _______?
What are the effects of _______?
What are the “pro” arguments about _______?
What are the “con” arguments about _______?
How can I refute arguments about _______?
What is being done about _______ ?
Sample questions to ask yourself:
Sample questions to ask yourself:
What do I think should be done about _______?
Based on my research what do I think about _______ and why?
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