1. Write a Thesis About Anything!
The Sheridan Baker Thesis Machine

2. What is a thesis machine?
The thesis machine is a step by step process for creating a thesis statement.
The thesis machine was developed by Sheridan Baker, a professor at the University of Michigan. It was included in his popular composition textbook, The Practical Stylist (1962).

3. State the Topic
Decide what the general topic of your essay will be. Remember that topic is general, and should only be a single word or term.
Sample topics:
College Athletes
Cell Phones
Make sure the topic is not too broad or too narrow for the scope of your essay

4. 2. State the specific issue in the form of a debate position.
The issue is your main idea, or what you will argue about the topic.
College athletes should be paid a minimum wage.
Cell phones are imperative to every college student’s learning experience.
What do you notice about the choice of verbs and qualifiers?

5. 3. Use a because clause to provide rationale for your position
After brainstorming reasons for your position, summarize and include them in a because clause.
College athletes should be paid a minimum wage because sports bring revenue to the college.
Cell phones are imperative to every college student’s learning experience because the use of technology is a key to career preparation.
What are three supporting ideas for either of these?

6. How could a student vary the opening of their thesis?
4. Refine the thesis by adding qualifications and removing the because clause
Acknowledge that there is a counterargument about your issue and reword your because clause to be more assertive.
Although student athletes often receive scholarships, they should be paid a minimum wage to compensate for the money the college earns through their athletic performances.
Although the use of cell phones often poses a risk for academic dishonesty or distraction, they are ultimately imperative for facilitating student learning, especially career preparation, in the college classroom.
How could a student vary the opening of their thesis?

7. Why does this help?
This method of generating a thesis can help you explore and summarize your reasons for your position.
It can also help you decide whether or not you agree with your position.

8. The Sheridan Baker Thesis Machine will help you generate a thesis if you are struggling, but once you get comfortable with your own writing style, you should try crafting theses that are worded differently.
However, do not forget the important elements of a topic, positions, and qualifiers.