Thesis Statement
What Is It?
Your thesis statement is essentially one clearly focused and arguable point that you will prove in the body of your essay through your own analysis of material gathered through your research (and of the primary text if your working on a literature-based project) that supports your interpretation or argument. It is often the last sentence of your introduction.
A good thesis statement:
clearly asserts the conclusion you have come to after analyzing your evidence.
is appropriate for the assignment (i.e. the topic can be adequately covered within the parameters of the assignment).
should be controversial and must be arguable. It is not a statement of fact. Ask yourself, would someone read your thesis and ask "so what?" or demand "prove it!"?
should not be in the form of a question. It must be a declarative sentence demonstating your point of view.
suggests the format of your paper. (i.e. it will act as the road map of your paper).
anticipates potential counter arguments.
is specific and focused.
should be kept flexible until the paper is finished. Your finalized thesis statement is often the last part of the rewriting process.
Links
Visit the following addresses for step-by-step assistance in writing a focused thesis statement.
Last Revision: May 11, 2010
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- Great Neck South High School Library *
341 Lakeville Road * Great Neck, NY 11020
- (516) 441-4809
