Thesis Statements What makes a good thesis statement? But then I discovered , and computers changed my life.

Do’s for writing a GREAT thesis statement 1. Express the point of the paper: People should neuter their dogs. 2. Defend or refute: Neutered dogs develop fewer tumors. 3. Be specific and concise: Neutered dogs prevent unwanted litters. 4. Use strong verbs: Neutered dogs escape cancer of the reproductive tract. 5. Make a statement – a declarative sentence: It is easier to live with neutered dogs.

Don’t do this when writing a GREAT thesis statement: 1. Describe the strategy of the paper: I am going to explain how neutering helps dogs. 2. Don’t be wordy: Statistics on the pros and cons of neutering dogs state that eighty-five percent of unprovoked dog bites happen by males who have not been neutered. 3. Don’t write a question: Did you ever think about neutering your dog?

Writing a Thesis Statement 1. Choose your topic. 2. Make a point (assertion) about your topic 3. Add these together to form a Working Thesis Statement (WTS)

Writing a Thesis Statement Topic: Dogs and cats Point: They are both excellent animals that are entirely lovable. = WTS: Dogs and cats are excellent animals that are entirely lovable. Topic: Coffee and energy drinks Point: Both are used by many people for many reasons, except thirst. = WTS: Coffee and energy drinks are used by many people for many reasons, except thirst. Topic: Books and movies Point: Both provide entertainment in opposite ways. = WTS: Books and movies, though somewhat similar, provide entertainment in opposite ways.