To Thesis, or Not to Thesis…

Remember when your Mom taught you, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression?” She was right. A thesis is the key element to a good (and therefore high scoring) essay. It should be right up front in a good essay. One cannot get more than half credit on any essay no matter how well written if it doesn't have a clear, comprehensive and analytical thesis.

PROMPT: “Compare and contrast how the First World War and its outcomes affected TWO of the following regions in the period from the war through the 1930's. East Asia Middle East South Asia

Good or Bad? The First World War had both similar and different effects on East Asia and the Middle East.

Good or Bad? The First World War had both similar and different effects on East Asia and the Middle East. This is a restatement of the question. It is not clear, analytical or comprehensive. A thesis should drive the essay. It is the type of engine one has in his car. Don’t worry about “fuel economy” here.

Good or Bad? The First World War and the period following affected both the Middle East and South Asia politically, socially and economically.

Good or Bad? The First World War and the period following affected both the Middle East and South Asia politically, socially and economically. This then gives the student focus. They can then hang significant historical facts to this thesis and have a solid essay. From here they must make direct comparisons and give specific evidence, but they must have a strong thesis (this example is the bare minimum) or their essay will die.