1 The Thesis Statement

2 The Thesis A sentence (or sometimes two) somewhere in your introduction. Gives your “point of view” about your subject, your “conclusion” about what the evidence means or what action should be taken. The statement you will defend in the rest of your essay.

3 A good thesis is… Open to debate (has arguments on both sides). Clearly defined. Not based simply on personal opinions or feelings. Supported with sufficient evidence… do not make a claim that you cannot back up!

4 Sooo… How do you write a thesis statement?

5 1. DO narrow your thesis statement. Poor: Newspapers cater to the taste of the American public. Better: The success of USA Today indicates that people want newspapers that are easy to read and entertaining.

6 2. DO include exceptions/counterexamples. Use words like… –However –But –Nevertheless, nonetheless –Instead –Consequently I.E. Genetic engineering is valuable because it can marshal a plant’s natural defenses against weeds and viruses even though such biotechnology could threaten the biosphere.

7 3. DO remember: The subject or topic of a paper is not the same as thesis statement. Poor: It will be discussed whether a student pub should exist on campus. Better: The college should not allow a student pub on campus because this would detract from the academic focus of the institution.

8 4. DO NOT base your thesis only on your beliefs or values. Poor: The death penalty should be abolished because I say so. Better: The death penalty should be abolished because statistics prove that it is ineffective at preventing crime.

9 5. DO NOT word your thesis as a question. It should be the answer. Poor: Does cigarette smoking hurt the body? Better: Research suggests that cigarette smoking harms both the heart and the lungs, and so more money should be put into anti-smoking advertising campaigns.

10 Remember… a thesis is a work in progress! Don’t worry if you find yourself wanting to change sides on an issue after you do research. This happens all the time. Often, it is a good idea to go back to your introduction after you are finished writing and see if your thesis needs to be altered at all.