Constructing and Organizing a Thesis Paper Relax: It’s not that difficult.

Basic Five Paragraph Essay Structure Introduction - containing thesis Supporting Reason #1 - in great detail Supporting Reason #2 - in great detail Supporting Reason #3 - in great detail Conclusion - wrapping up argument The goal is to outgrow this format.

Creating a Thesis Look for patterns or re-occurrences of ideas in your text that fit your topic. Think about what all of your pieces of evidence could help to prove. Write this down as your thesis statement.

Crazy Thesis Statements Your thesis statement could be completely outlandish or seemingly crazy. If you can convincingly prove it, there is nothing wrong with it. For instance: if Nico King decides to do his thesis on the merits of being lazy, that is his ridiculous choice.

Things to Avoid The words: “First reason,” “Second reason,” “Third reason, ” and “In conclusion.” In a well-written paper, each of these things should be completely obvious.

The Use of “I” and “We” Tend to weaken your paper so they should generally be avoided Example: I think handguns are a danger to society. (sounds like your opinion) Example: Handguns are a danger to society. (sounds like a fact)

The Point of Paragraphs Divide topics into easily understandable pieces - make sure you indent new paragraphs All written pieces should have several paragraphs. They show sophistication and organization.

Before Writing You may wish to outline to organize your thoughts. When you actually write, you have a ready made template to follow.

The Introduction Paragraph Should begin with something to attract the attention of your readers If necessary, should provide all plot summary and background information. Should present thesis statement near end of paragraph.

Supporting Reason Paragraphs Limit each paragraph to only one reason Provide all of your evidence (citations, quotes, etc.) to prove why this reason is true within the paragraph Explain how this reason helps to prove your thesis before paragraph ends

Explaining Your Reasons The most difficult thing to do You must present the relationship between your reason and your thesis logically to your readers. This should make up the bulk of your paper.

Transitions When moving from one supporting reason to the next, think of the relationship between the two reasons. Start the new paragraph with a transitional word that demonstrates the relationship (“furthermore,” “as opposed to,” etc.).

Conclusion Paragraph Should wrap up your argument - should NOT restate anything from introductory paragraph Should primarily contain final explanations as to why your thesis is correct (should be taken as fact)

First Draft Writing Just start writing! Forget about grammar, word choice, etc. - Get something down on the page!