Thesis Statement A central idea to which all of the essay’s paragraphs, all of its general statements, and specific information, relate.

Functions of a Thesis Narrows your subject to a single, central idea Claims something specific and significant about your subject Conveys your purpose Establishes your voice Previews the arrangement of ideas

Thesis Question You can begin with a Thesis Question that helps to narrow your subject. You can refine your question and your thesis statement as you write your draft. A thesis question can help sharpen your ideas and information.

Thesis Question Example Why did Abraham Lincoln delay in emancipating the slaves? Thesis Statement: Lincoln delayed emancipating any slaves until 1863 because his primary goal was to restore and preserve the Union, with or without slavery.

Thesis Question Example Why should drivers’ use of cell phones be banned? Thesis Statement: Drivers’ use of cell phones should be outlawed because people who talk and drive at the same time cause accidents.

Revising the Thesis Statement How well does the subject of your statement capture the subject of your paper? What claim does your thesis make about your subject? What is the significance of the claim? How can the claim be limited or more specific? How unified is the statement? How well does the statement convey your voice?

Revising Thesis Example Original: Seat belts can save lives, but now carmakers are installing air bags. Revised: If drivers had used lifesaving seat belts more often, carmakers might not have needed to install air bags.