How to write a thesis statement

What is a Thesis Statement? A thesis can act as a map that you provide for your reader to follow. works as a guide to say what is most important about your it can serve as an outline to follow as you write. A strong thesis statement is composed of three parts: the what, the what about it, and the why.

Thesis Statement Location The thesis statement should guide your reader through your argument. It is generally located in the introduction of the paper. A thesis statement may also be located within the body of the paper or in the conclusion, depending upon the purpose or argument of the paper.

The What: For example: Because of its benefits, it should be legal. This is the overall subject of the sentence and the basis of your topic Should open the sentence as the clear subject State the full name For example: Because of its benefits, it should be legal. Instead write: Medical marijuana must be legalized for its medicinal properties, and its implications to our legal system and economy.

What about it? This is your position on your topic, your argument, or what you will prove. Should clearly state the purpose of your paper As the action of the statement, it should follow the subject. For example: Because of its benefits, it should be legal. Instead write: Medical marijuana must be legalized for its medicinal properties, and its implications to our legal system and economy.

Why For example: Because of its benefits, it should be legal. This is the significance of your argument, why you have chosen your position, how you will prove it, or what supporting evidence will be shown. Try to present them in order of how you will organize your body paragraphs. For example: Because of its benefits, it should be legal. Instead write: Medical marijuana must be legalized for its medicinal properties, and its implications to our legal system and economy. 

Components of a Strong Thesis Focused Make sure your thesis statement is not too broad! Position must be clear. Do you agree with what your topic? Why? What evidence do you have? Relevant Make sure your thesis pertains to your topic Readers should not be asking: so what?

Most important steps: Revise, revise, R-E-V-I-S-E Make sure that as you go through the writing process, make sure that your thesis is matching up with your paper. Common mistakes include changing information or shifting the focus in one’s topic and not changing the thesis to align with it. Be sure you are answering the prompt It’s easy to get lost in a paper, but be sure that you find yourself back to your original purpose and goals.

Questions?