Research Writing: Make Your Point

Lesson Plan - Get It!

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What Is a Thesis Statement?

Your thesis statement is the most important sentence in your entire paper. It does three big things.

1. It states your topic.

2. It shares your opinion or position on that topic.

3. It gives a reason or preview of how you’ll support that position.

It usually appears as the last sentence in your introduction—like the punchline to your opening.

A good thesis gives your reader a roadmap. It’s like saying, “Here’s where we’re going—and here’s how we’ll get there.”

What a Thesis Is Not

Before getting into how to write one, let’s clear up a few things a thesis statement should never be.

Not a question: You’re the writer—take a stand!

• Example (weak): Should schools require uniforms?
• Better: School uniforms limit student self-expression and should not be mandatory.

Not a personal announcement: Avoid “I will write about…” or “This paper is about…”

• Example (weak): In this essay, I will talk about climate change.
• Better: Climate change threatens coastal communities and demands immediate global action.

Not just a fact: A strong thesis makes a claim, not just a statement of truth.

• Example (weak): George Washington was the first president of the United States.
• Better: George Washington’s leadership style set the standard for future presidents and shaped the new nation’s identity.

The Anatomy of a Strong Thesis

A solid thesis statement includes the following.

1. a specific topic

2. a clear position or opinion

3. one or more reasons or points of support

Think of it this way.

Topic + Position + Because + Reason(s)

Break it down with an example.

The invention of the steam engine changed the American landscape because it allowed for faster travel and sparked economic growth.

1. Topic: the invention of the steam engine

2. Position: It changed the American landscape.

3. Reasons: faster travel and economic growth

How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement

Follow these steps to create your own thesis.

1. Know your topic.

Example: Artificial intelligence

2. Ask a question.

Example: What impact is AI having on jobs?

3. Take a position.

Example: AI is changing the job market in both positive and negative ways.

4. Add your reasons.

Example: AI is changing the job market by eliminating some jobs while creating new roles that require different skills.

5. Draft a full sentence.

Final Thesis: Artificial intelligence is transforming the job market by replacing repetitive tasks and creating demand for new tech-based careers.

Examples of Strong Thesis Statements

Fairy tales reveal deep truths about childhood development because they reflect common fears, desires, and values.

The U.S. should ban single-use plastics because they cause long-term environmental harm, and there are sustainable alternatives.

Social media can damage teen mental health by increasing comparison, lowering self-esteem, and encouraging unhealthy habits.

Now that you know how to craft a strong thesis, it’s time to practice. In the Got It? section, you’ll analyze and revise thesis statements and try creating your own.

See what you’ve got!