three sentence thesis statement

How to Write a Perfect 3-Point Thesis Statement With Samples and Tips

11 December 2023

last updated

A 3-point thesis statement is a coherent statement that integrates the three essential components of a standard thesis statement, which include a topic, an assertion, and reasons justifying the claim. Basically, the topic should narrowly define the subject. In this case, defending the claim requires writers to highlight a number of reasons. It is possible through the application of conjunctions. While formulating a working 3-point thesis statement, it is crucial to ensure that this sentence is question-focused, debatable, precise, and concise. Using non-technical language, concrete, and transpicuous words can help to improve its clarity. To make it stand out, a perfect 3-point thesis statement should be an original, specific, justifiable, and socially relevant idea derived from facts.

Description of a 3-Point Thesis Statement

A thesis statement, usually placed in the introduction paragraph, is a single statement (or two) that acts as the core of an essay. Besides, this sentence acts as a guide to readers on what essays entail, including the arrangement of ideas adopted. In this case, a strong thesis statement should precisely define the essay topic by considering a definition of the main claim, have an applicable case, and cover motivations to back up the case. Therefore, in order to answer what is a 3-point thesis statement, this sentence consolidates the three key segments, which include a subject, an assertion, and pertinent reasons to support the main claim.

Formulating a 3-Point Thesis Statement

Topic selection.

Generally, the question prompt in schools, colleges, and universities states the essay topic, and, at times, the writer is required to present a single sentence. Also, it is prudent to brainstorm on a few topics before selecting a particular theme. Basically, each argument made in an academic paper requires feasible proof. Rather than writing “democracy,” it would be wise to write “the American democracy.” Thus, the topic selected ought to be a narrow description of the essay subject.

Making an Assertion

The process of developing a strong claim begins by identifying the relationship between your idea and available information. For instance, integrating ideas, the subject, and known facts will help in formulating a viable argument. Rather than developing a personal claim, writers should make an argument that is socially relevant and easily contestable. In this case, each piece of evidence stated will aid in developing a topic sentence in the body of an academic essay. Moreover, the reasons highlighted in the paper and the order of ideas adopted in segments determine the number and arrangement of the body paragraphs.

Support Inclusion

The last part of a 3-point thesis statement involves providing reasons to back up your opinion. In particular, the application of conjunctions, such as “because,” “as,” “due,” “although,” and “since,” helps in integrating a claim and justification. Then, highlighting shreds of evidence can be helpful, especially in determining the extent to which writers will expound their claims. In this case, this attitude determines the length of a final paper. However, the process of developing a 3-point thesis statement ought to remain adaptable until authors complete writing papers. Basically, writers may discover vital information, such as new evidence that needs relevant to the essay topic. Hence, after completing the paper, it is necessary to go through the essay and identify the information that needs to be included or eliminated from a 3-point thesis statement.  

Receive personalized assistance from our writers, ensuring your paper is both original and tailored to your needs.

A Working 3-Point Thesis Statement

Usually, the question prompt guides writers during the formulation of a 3-point thesis statement by presenting the topic. For instance, a relevant 3-point thesis statement must be present at the beginning of the paper, usually in the first paragraph. In this case, formulating a debatable and question-focused argument, followed by supporting statements or phrases, is the first step towards having 3-point thesis statement examples. However, this sentence should be precise and concise. In turn, specificity can be achieved by revising an argument several times. Also, students can select the most specific idea from a few formulated arguments to answer the same question. Hence, before presenting the essay, writers should answer the following questions:

• Does the thesis statement at the beginning of my essay have the three key elements?
• Is it question-focused?
• Is it precise and concise?

How Clear Is a 3-Point Thesis Statement?

A vague thesis statement is incomprehensible to readers rendering the essay unclear. Being part of a final paper, writers must follow all the instructions regarding academic writing . In this case, writing a strong 3-point thesis statement requires writers to adopt non-technical language and eliminate vague and abstract words. The only secret to ensuring clarity of a 3-point statement is by revising it as many times as possible. Accordingly, writers should not assume that readers understand technical language unless the question prompt instructs otherwise.

Making a Thesis Statement Outstanding

A well-formulated 3-point thesis statement shows the writer’s ability to comprehend and analyze the topic successfully. Rather than simply stating a general fact and providing common reasons, writers ought to show their position by coming up with an informed argument justifiable upon reviewing the available information. In this case, the clarity of a statement is one way of making it non-biased if you want to know how do you write a 3-point thesis statement. By taking a specific approach, writers eliminate the need to announce the subject, which needs to weaken it. Secondly, writers should make a reasonable premise that neither under simplify nor overcomplicate the argument. Furthermore, it is advisable to make ideas rather than adopt formula statements or general ideas. Therefore, a good 3-point thesis statement is an original, specific, justifiable, and socially relevant idea derived from facts.

A Perfect Example of a Three-Point Thesis Statement

Sample Thesis: People cannot achieve the American Dream due to the continual racial discrimination, corrupt justice system, and ineffective education policies across many states.

Step 1 – Topic: “The American Dream.”

Comment: It is a socially relevant topic.

Step 2 – Assertion : “People cannot achieve.”

Comment: The writer’s position is that the American Dream is unrealizable, a claim that will act as the essay basis.

Step 3 – Support With Three Points :

• Continual racial discrimination.
• Corrupt justice system.
• Ineffective education policies across many states.

Comment: There are three reasons justifying the writer’s claim.

This is a perfect example of a thesis statement incorporating the three key elements. Basically, every American citizen yearns for an ideal America where equality of opportunity is available for all people. Hence, the “American dream” is a feasible topic. While some individuals may oppose this statement by highlighting the reasons why it is possible to have a perfect America, this essay will focus on the impossibility by having three body paragraphs based on the three reasons.

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

Apply texas essay prompts with tips and samples, essay on parasitic worms hold back human progress.

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

• Knowledge Base
• How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on January 11, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on August 15, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . It usually comes near the end of your introduction .

Your thesis will look a bit different depending on the type of essay you’re writing. But the thesis statement should always clearly state the main idea you want to get across. Everything else in your essay should relate back to this idea.

You can write your thesis statement by following four simple steps:

• Start with a question
• Write your initial answer
• Develop your answer
• Refine your thesis statement

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

Table of contents

What is a thesis statement, placement of the thesis statement, step 1: start with a question, step 2: write your initial answer, step 3: develop your answer, step 4: refine your thesis statement, types of thesis statements, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis statements.

A thesis statement summarizes the central points of your essay. It is a signpost telling the reader what the essay will argue and why.

The best thesis statements are:

• Concise: A good thesis statement is short and sweet—don’t use more words than necessary. State your point clearly and directly in one or two sentences.
• Contentious: Your thesis shouldn’t be a simple statement of fact that everyone already knows. A good thesis statement is a claim that requires further evidence or analysis to back it up.
• Coherent: Everything mentioned in your thesis statement must be supported and explained in the rest of your paper.

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

The thesis statement generally appears at the end of your essay introduction or research paper introduction .

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts and among young people more generally is hotly debated. For many who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education: the internet facilitates easier access to information, exposure to different perspectives, and a flexible learning environment for both students and teachers.

You should come up with an initial thesis, sometimes called a working thesis , early in the writing process . As soon as you’ve decided on your essay topic , you need to work out what you want to say about it—a clear thesis will give your essay direction and structure.

You might already have a question in your assignment, but if not, try to come up with your own. What would you like to find out or decide about your topic?

For example, you might ask:

After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process .

Now you need to consider why this is your answer and how you will convince your reader to agree with you. As you read more about your topic and begin writing, your answer should get more detailed.

In your essay about the internet and education, the thesis states your position and sketches out the key arguments you’ll use to support it.

The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education because it facilitates easier access to information.

In your essay about braille, the thesis statement summarizes the key historical development that you’ll explain.

The invention of braille in the 19th century transformed the lives of blind people, allowing them to participate more actively in public life.

A strong thesis statement should tell the reader:

• Why you hold this position
• What they’ll learn from your essay
• The key points of your argument or narrative

The final thesis statement doesn’t just state your position, but summarizes your overall argument or the entire topic you’re going to explain. To strengthen a weak thesis statement, it can help to consider the broader context of your topic.

These examples are more specific and show that you’ll explore your topic in depth.

Your thesis statement should match the goals of your essay, which vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing:

• In an argumentative essay , your thesis statement should take a strong position. Your aim in the essay is to convince your reader of this thesis based on evidence and logical reasoning.
• In an expository essay , you’ll aim to explain the facts of a topic or process. Your thesis statement doesn’t have to include a strong opinion in this case, but it should clearly state the central point you want to make, and mention the key elements you’ll explain.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

• Choosing Essay Topic
• Write a College Essay
• Write a Diversity Essay
• College Essay Format & Structure
• Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

 (AI) Tools

• Grammar Checker
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Text Summarizer
• AI Detector
• Plagiarism Checker
• Citation Generator

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

• Ask a question about your topic .
• Write your initial answer.
• Develop your answer by including reasons.
• Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. (2023, August 15). How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved April 15, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/thesis-statement/

Is this article helpful?

Shona McCombes

Other students also liked, how to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples, how to write topic sentences | 4 steps, examples & purpose, academic paragraph structure | step-by-step guide & examples, what is your plagiarism score.

How to Write a Three Point Thesis Statement

What Is a Thesis Statement?

How to develop three points for a thesis statement, what are characteristics of a strong thesis statement.

Some aspects of writing are more challenging than others. Most high school and college students tasked with writing a thesis statement understand that it generally falls into the more challenging camp. Whether you are a skilled writer who approaches writing assignments with enthusiasm or a struggling writer who dreads them, knowing how to craft a quality thesis statement is the key to writing an effective essay or research paper.

A thesis statement is the core of an essay. It is usually one sentence, which is often placed at the end of the introduction, and lets the reader know what the essay will be about. A proper thesis will present your argument in an intriguing and confident manner.

If done properly, your thesis statement should read much like an outline in sentence form. To do this, it might preview multiple aspects of the argument that will be in your body paragraphs. Essays that are missing a thesis statement or have one that is inadequate will be harder for the writer to write and more challenging for the reader to follow and understand.

A standard thesis statement has three main components: ​ a narrowly defined topic, a claim and reasons that support the claim. ​ If you want a strong thesis statement, you need to make sure that all three of these points are included in it.

First, identify your topic and narrow it down as much as possible. Clothing, for example, is too broad of a topic for a thesis statement. You could narrow it down to uniforms, but that is still too vague to truly know what type of uniforms the essay will explore. School uniforms is an example of a narrowly defined topic for a thesis statement.

Next, make a specific claim about the topic. Your claim is basically an assertion or opinion about the topic, but it needs to be debatable rather than obvious and socially relevant rather than personal. I like school uniforms because they make me feel proud of my school, for example, is not debatable and is only relevant to you. School uniforms should be required is a better claim because it is debatable and socially relevant.

Finally, include reasons that will support the claim you made, which are basically the “because” part of your thesis statement. Most essays require ​ at least three reasons ​ to properly support a claim. The reasons should be specifically mentioned without going into further detail at the moment. The details and examples belong in your body paragraphs, not your thesis statement.

To figure out which reasons to include, identify the three main points you would like to make about your claim. These three main points essentially outline how the rest of your essay will be organized. The first reason will be the sole focus of your first body paragraph where you will use evidence and examples to support that reason. The second reason will be the sole focus of your second body paragraph, and the third reason will be the focus of your third body paragraph.

So, an example three-point thesis statement (if you were making an argument about school uniforms) would be: School uniforms should be required because they make school safer, promote school spirit and save parents money.

A strong thesis statement is one that includes all three essential components of a narrowly defined topic, debatable and socially relevant claim and reasons to support the claim. To develop a strong thesis statement, consider what you want your readers to know and why it is important.

“Zoos are bad” is an example of an incomplete and inadequate thesis statement because the claim is not very debatable and does not include any supporting reasons. It is not developed and presents no arguments.

A stronger thesis statement would be more like: “Zoos should be banned because they are unethical, they change natural animal behavior, and they pose unnecessary risks to the animals in their care.” This thesis statement includes all of the necessary components and tells the reader exactly what points will be explored and supported in the essay.

Related Articles

How to Write an Introduction to a Reflective Essay

How to Write an Essay on Transportation Problems

A Good Thesis Topic

How to write a rebuttal speech.

Informative Writing Techniques

The Parts of an Argument

How to Set Up a Rhetorical Analysis

How to Write a Controlling Idea Essay

Kristina Barroso earned a B.A. in Psychology from Florida International University and works full-time as a classroom teacher in a public school. She teaches middle school English to a wide range of students from struggling readers to advanced and gifted populations. In her spare time, she loves writing articles about education for TheClassroom.com, WorkingMother and other education sites.

Developing a Thesis Statement

Many papers you write require developing a thesis statement. In this section you’ll learn what a thesis statement is and how to write one.

Keep in mind that not all papers require thesis statements . If in doubt, please consult your instructor for assistance.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement . . .

• Makes an argumentative assertion about a topic; it states the conclusions that you have reached about your topic.
• Makes a promise to the reader about the scope, purpose, and direction of your paper.
• Is focused and specific enough to be “proven” within the boundaries of your paper.
• Is generally located near the end of the introduction ; sometimes, in a long paper, the thesis will be expressed in several sentences or in an entire paragraph.
• Identifies the relationships between the pieces of evidence that you are using to support your argument.

Not all papers require thesis statements! Ask your instructor if you’re in doubt whether you need one.

Identify a topic

Your topic is the subject about which you will write. Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic; or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper.

Consider what your assignment asks you to do

Inform yourself about your topic, focus on one aspect of your topic, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts, generate a topic from an assignment.

Below are some possible topics based on sample assignments.

Sample assignment 1

Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II.

Identified topic

Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis

This topic avoids generalities such as “Spain” and “World War II,” addressing instead on Franco’s role (a specific aspect of “Spain”) and the diplomatic relations between the Allies and Axis (a specific aspect of World War II).

Sample assignment 2

Analyze one of Homer’s epic similes in the Iliad.

The relationship between the portrayal of warfare and the epic simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64.

This topic focuses on a single simile and relates it to a single aspect of the Iliad ( warfare being a major theme in that work).

Developing a Thesis Statement–Additional information

Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic, or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper. You’ll want to read your assignment carefully, looking for key terms that you can use to focus your topic.

Sample assignment: Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II Key terms: analyze, Spain’s neutrality, World War II

After you’ve identified the key words in your topic, the next step is to read about them in several sources, or generate as much information as possible through an analysis of your topic. Obviously, the more material or knowledge you have, the more possibilities will be available for a strong argument. For the sample assignment above, you’ll want to look at books and articles on World War II in general, and Spain’s neutrality in particular.

As you consider your options, you must decide to focus on one aspect of your topic. This means that you cannot include everything you’ve learned about your topic, nor should you go off in several directions. If you end up covering too many different aspects of a topic, your paper will sprawl and be unconvincing in its argument, and it most likely will not fulfull the assignment requirements.

For the sample assignment above, both Spain’s neutrality and World War II are topics far too broad to explore in a paper. You may instead decide to focus on Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis , which narrows down what aspects of Spain’s neutrality and World War II you want to discuss, as well as establishes a specific link between those two aspects.

Before you go too far, however, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts. Try to avoid topics that already have too much written about them (i.e., “eating disorders and body image among adolescent women”) or that simply are not important (i.e. “why I like ice cream”). These topics may lead to a thesis that is either dry fact or a weird claim that cannot be supported. A good thesis falls somewhere between the two extremes. To arrive at this point, ask yourself what is new, interesting, contestable, or controversial about your topic.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times . Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Derive a main point from topic

Once you have a topic, you will have to decide what the main point of your paper will be. This point, the “controlling idea,” becomes the core of your argument (thesis statement) and it is the unifying idea to which you will relate all your sub-theses. You can then turn this “controlling idea” into a purpose statement about what you intend to do in your paper.

Look for patterns in your evidence

Compose a purpose statement.

Consult the examples below for suggestions on how to look for patterns in your evidence and construct a purpose statement.

• Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis
• Franco turned to the Allies when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from the Axis

Possible conclusion:

Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: Franco’s desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power.

Purpose statement

This paper will analyze Franco’s diplomacy during World War II to see how it contributed to Spain’s neutrality.

• The simile compares Simoisius to a tree, which is a peaceful, natural image.
• The tree in the simile is chopped down to make wheels for a chariot, which is an object used in warfare.

At first, the simile seems to take the reader away from the world of warfare, but we end up back in that world by the end.

This paper will analyze the way the simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64 moves in and out of the world of warfare.

Derive purpose statement from topic

To find out what your “controlling idea” is, you have to examine and evaluate your evidence . As you consider your evidence, you may notice patterns emerging, data repeated in more than one source, or facts that favor one view more than another. These patterns or data may then lead you to some conclusions about your topic and suggest that you can successfully argue for one idea better than another.

For instance, you might find out that Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis, but when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from them, he turned to the Allies. As you read more about Franco’s decisions, you may conclude that Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: his desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power. Based on this conclusion, you can then write a trial thesis statement to help you decide what material belongs in your paper.

Sometimes you won’t be able to find a focus or identify your “spin” or specific argument immediately. Like some writers, you might begin with a purpose statement just to get yourself going. A purpose statement is one or more sentences that announce your topic and indicate the structure of the paper but do not state the conclusions you have drawn . Thus, you might begin with something like this:

• This paper will look at modern language to see if it reflects male dominance or female oppression.
• I plan to analyze anger and derision in offensive language to see if they represent a challenge of society’s authority.

At some point, you can turn a purpose statement into a thesis statement. As you think and write about your topic, you can restrict, clarify, and refine your argument, crafting your thesis statement to reflect your thinking.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Compose a draft thesis statement

If you are writing a paper that will have an argumentative thesis and are having trouble getting started, the techniques in the table below may help you develop a temporary or “working” thesis statement.

Begin with a purpose statement that you will later turn into a thesis statement.

Assignment: Discuss the history of the Reform Party and explain its influence on the 1990 presidential and Congressional election.

Purpose Statement: This paper briefly sketches the history of the grassroots, conservative, Perot-led Reform Party and analyzes how it influenced the economic and social ideologies of the two mainstream parties.

Question-to-Assertion

If your assignment asks a specific question(s), turn the question(s) into an assertion and give reasons why it is true or reasons for your opinion.

Assignment : What do Aylmer and Rappaccini have to be proud of? Why aren’t they satisfied with these things? How does pride, as demonstrated in “The Birthmark” and “Rappaccini’s Daughter,” lead to unexpected problems?

Beginning thesis statement: Alymer and Rappaccinni are proud of their great knowledge; however, they are also very greedy and are driven to use their knowledge to alter some aspect of nature as a test of their ability. Evil results when they try to “play God.”

Write a sentence that summarizes the main idea of the essay you plan to write.

Main idea: The reason some toys succeed in the market is that they appeal to the consumers’ sense of the ridiculous and their basic desire to laugh at themselves.

Make a list of the ideas that you want to include; consider the ideas and try to group them.

• nature = peaceful
• war matériel = violent (competes with 1?)
• need for time and space to mourn the dead
• war is inescapable (competes with 3?)

Use a formula to arrive at a working thesis statement (you will revise this later).

• although most readers of _______ have argued that _______, closer examination shows that _______.
• _______ uses _______ and _____ to prove that ________.
• phenomenon x is a result of the combination of __________, __________, and _________.

What to keep in mind as you draft an initial thesis statement

Beginning statements obtained through the methods illustrated above can serve as a framework for planning or drafting your paper, but remember they’re not yet the specific, argumentative thesis you want for the final version of your paper. In fact, in its first stages, a thesis statement usually is ill-formed or rough and serves only as a planning tool.

As you write, you may discover evidence that does not fit your temporary or “working” thesis. Or you may reach deeper insights about your topic as you do more research, and you will find that your thesis statement has to be more complicated to match the evidence that you want to use.

You must be willing to reject or omit some evidence in order to keep your paper cohesive and your reader focused. Or you may have to revise your thesis to match the evidence and insights that you want to discuss. Read your draft carefully, noting the conclusions you have drawn and the major ideas which support or prove those conclusions. These will be the elements of your final thesis statement.

Sometimes you will not be able to identify these elements in your early drafts, but as you consider how your argument is developing and how your evidence supports your main idea, ask yourself, “ What is the main point that I want to prove/discuss? ” and “ How will I convince the reader that this is true? ” When you can answer these questions, then you can begin to refine the thesis statement.

Refine and polish the thesis statement

To get to your final thesis, you’ll need to refine your draft thesis so that it’s specific and arguable.

• Ask if your draft thesis addresses the assignment
• Question each part of your draft thesis
• Clarify vague phrases and assertions
• Investigate alternatives to your draft thesis

Consult the example below for suggestions on how to refine your draft thesis statement.

Sample Assignment

Choose an activity and define it as a symbol of American culture. Your essay should cause the reader to think critically about the society which produces and enjoys that activity.

• Ask The phenomenon of drive-in facilities is an interesting symbol of american culture, and these facilities demonstrate significant characteristics of our society.This statement does not fulfill the assignment because it does not require the reader to think critically about society.

Drive-ins are an interesting symbol of American culture because they represent Americans’ significant creativity and business ingenuity.

Among the types of drive-in facilities familiar during the twentieth century, drive-in movie theaters best represent American creativity, not merely because they were the forerunner of later drive-ins and drive-throughs, but because of their impact on our culture: they changed our relationship to the automobile, changed the way people experienced movies, and changed movie-going into a family activity.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast-food establishments, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize America’s economic ingenuity, they also have affected our personal standards.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast- food restaurants, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize (1) Americans’ business ingenuity, they also have contributed (2) to an increasing homogenization of our culture, (3) a willingness to depersonalize relationships with others, and (4) a tendency to sacrifice quality for convenience.

This statement is now specific and fulfills all parts of the assignment. This version, like any good thesis, is not self-evident; its points, 1-4, will have to be proven with evidence in the body of the paper. The numbers in this statement indicate the order in which the points will be presented. Depending on the length of the paper, there could be one paragraph for each numbered item or there could be blocks of paragraph for even pages for each one.

Complete the final thesis statement

The bottom line.

As you move through the process of crafting a thesis, you’ll need to remember four things:

• Context matters! Think about your course materials and lectures. Try to relate your thesis to the ideas your instructor is discussing.
• As you go through the process described in this section, always keep your assignment in mind . You will be more successful when your thesis (and paper) responds to the assignment than if it argues a semi-related idea.
• Your thesis statement should be precise, focused, and contestable ; it should predict the sub-theses or blocks of information that you will use to prove your argument.
• Make sure that you keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Change your thesis as your paper evolves, because you do not want your thesis to promise more than your paper actually delivers.

In the beginning, the thesis statement was a tool to help you sharpen your focus, limit material and establish the paper’s purpose. When your paper is finished, however, the thesis statement becomes a tool for your reader. It tells the reader what you have learned about your topic and what evidence led you to your conclusion. It keeps the reader on track–well able to understand and appreciate your argument.

Writing Process and Structure

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Getting Started with Your Paper

Interpreting Writing Assignments from Your Courses

Generating Ideas for

Creating an Argument

Thesis vs. Purpose Statements

Architecture of Arguments

Working with Sources

Quoting and Paraphrasing Sources

Using Literary Quotations

Citing Sources in Your Paper

Drafting Your Paper

Generating Ideas for Your Paper

Introductions

Paragraphing

Developing Strategic Transitions

Conclusions

Revising Your Paper

Peer Reviews

Reverse Outlines

Revising an Argumentative Paper

Revision Strategies for Longer Projects

Finishing Your Paper

Twelve Common Errors: An Editing Checklist

How to Proofread your Paper

Writing Collaboratively

Collaborative and Group Writing

Thesis Statements

What this handout is about.

This handout describes what a thesis statement is, how thesis statements work in your writing, and how you can craft or refine one for your draft.

Introduction

Writing in college often takes the form of persuasion—convincing others that you have an interesting, logical point of view on the subject you are studying. Persuasion is a skill you practice regularly in your daily life. You persuade your roommate to clean up, your parents to let you borrow the car, your friend to vote for your favorite candidate or policy. In college, course assignments often ask you to make a persuasive case in writing. You are asked to convince your reader of your point of view. This form of persuasion, often called academic argument, follows a predictable pattern in writing. After a brief introduction of your topic, you state your point of view on the topic directly and often in one sentence. This sentence is the thesis statement, and it serves as a summary of the argument you’ll make in the rest of your paper.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement:

• tells the reader how you will interpret the significance of the subject matter under discussion.
• is a road map for the paper; in other words, it tells the reader what to expect from the rest of the paper.
• directly answers the question asked of you. A thesis is an interpretation of a question or subject, not the subject itself. The subject, or topic, of an essay might be World War II or Moby Dick; a thesis must then offer a way to understand the war or the novel.
• makes a claim that others might dispute.
• is usually a single sentence near the beginning of your paper (most often, at the end of the first paragraph) that presents your argument to the reader. The rest of the paper, the body of the essay, gathers and organizes evidence that will persuade the reader of the logic of your interpretation.

If your assignment asks you to take a position or develop a claim about a subject, you may need to convey that position or claim in a thesis statement near the beginning of your draft. The assignment may not explicitly state that you need a thesis statement because your instructor may assume you will include one. When in doubt, ask your instructor if the assignment requires a thesis statement. When an assignment asks you to analyze, to interpret, to compare and contrast, to demonstrate cause and effect, or to take a stand on an issue, it is likely that you are being asked to develop a thesis and to support it persuasively. (Check out our handout on understanding assignments for more information.)

How do I create a thesis?

A thesis is the result of a lengthy thinking process. Formulating a thesis is not the first thing you do after reading an essay assignment. Before you develop an argument on any topic, you have to collect and organize evidence, look for possible relationships between known facts (such as surprising contrasts or similarities), and think about the significance of these relationships. Once you do this thinking, you will probably have a “working thesis” that presents a basic or main idea and an argument that you think you can support with evidence. Both the argument and your thesis are likely to need adjustment along the way.

Writers use all kinds of techniques to stimulate their thinking and to help them clarify relationships or comprehend the broader significance of a topic and arrive at a thesis statement. For more ideas on how to get started, see our handout on brainstorming .

How do I know if my thesis is strong?

If there’s time, run it by your instructor or make an appointment at the Writing Center to get some feedback. Even if you do not have time to get advice elsewhere, you can do some thesis evaluation of your own. When reviewing your first draft and its working thesis, ask yourself the following :

• Do I answer the question? Re-reading the question prompt after constructing a working thesis can help you fix an argument that misses the focus of the question. If the prompt isn’t phrased as a question, try to rephrase it. For example, “Discuss the effect of X on Y” can be rephrased as “What is the effect of X on Y?”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? If your thesis simply states facts that no one would, or even could, disagree with, it’s possible that you are simply providing a summary, rather than making an argument.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? Thesis statements that are too vague often do not have a strong argument. If your thesis contains words like “good” or “successful,” see if you could be more specific: why is something “good”; what specifically makes something “successful”?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? If a reader’s first response is likely to  be “So what?” then you need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue.
• Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. It’s okay to change your working thesis to reflect things you have figured out in the course of writing your paper. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? If a reader’s first response is “how?” or “why?” your thesis may be too open-ended and lack guidance for the reader. See what you can add to give the reader a better take on your position right from the beginning.

Suppose you are taking a course on contemporary communication, and the instructor hands out the following essay assignment: “Discuss the impact of social media on public awareness.” Looking back at your notes, you might start with this working thesis:

Social media impacts public awareness in both positive and negative ways.

You can use the questions above to help you revise this general statement into a stronger thesis.

• Do I answer the question? You can analyze this if you rephrase “discuss the impact” as “what is the impact?” This way, you can see that you’ve answered the question only very generally with the vague “positive and negative ways.”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not likely. Only people who maintain that social media has a solely positive or solely negative impact could disagree.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? No. What are the positive effects? What are the negative effects?
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? No. Why are they positive? How are they positive? What are their causes? Why are they negative? How are they negative? What are their causes?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? No. Why should anyone care about the positive and/or negative impact of social media?

After thinking about your answers to these questions, you decide to focus on the one impact you feel strongly about and have strong evidence for:

Because not every voice on social media is reliable, people have become much more critical consumers of information, and thus, more informed voters.

This version is a much stronger thesis! It answers the question, takes a specific position that others can challenge, and it gives a sense of why it matters.

Let’s try another. Suppose your literature professor hands out the following assignment in a class on the American novel: Write an analysis of some aspect of Mark Twain’s novel Huckleberry Finn. “This will be easy,” you think. “I loved Huckleberry Finn!” You grab a pad of paper and write:

Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn is a great American novel.

You begin to analyze your thesis:

• Do I answer the question? No. The prompt asks you to analyze some aspect of the novel. Your working thesis is a statement of general appreciation for the entire novel.

Think about aspects of the novel that are important to its structure or meaning—for example, the role of storytelling, the contrasting scenes between the shore and the river, or the relationships between adults and children. Now you write:

In Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain develops a contrast between life on the river and life on the shore.

• Do I answer the question? Yes!
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not really. This contrast is well-known and accepted.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? It’s getting there–you have highlighted an important aspect of the novel for investigation. However, it’s still not clear what your analysis will reveal.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? Not yet. Compare scenes from the book and see what you discover. Free write, make lists, jot down Huck’s actions and reactions and anything else that seems interesting.
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? What’s the point of this contrast? What does it signify?”

After examining the evidence and considering your own insights, you write:

Through its contrasting river and shore scenes, Twain’s Huckleberry Finn suggests that to find the true expression of American democratic ideals, one must leave “civilized” society and go back to nature.

This final thesis statement presents an interpretation of a literary work based on an analysis of its content. Of course, for the essay itself to be successful, you must now present evidence from the novel that will convince the reader of your interpretation.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Anson, Chris M., and Robert A. Schwegler. 2010. The Longman Handbook for Writers and Readers , 6th ed. New York: Longman.

Lunsford, Andrea A. 2015. The St. Martin’s Handbook , 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St Martin’s.

Ramage, John D., John C. Bean, and June Johnson. 2018. The Allyn & Bacon Guide to Writing , 8th ed. New York: Pearson.

Ruszkiewicz, John J., Christy Friend, Daniel Seward, and Maxine Hairston. 2010. The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers , 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Make a Gift

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

9.1 Developing a Strong, Clear Thesis Statement

Learning objectives.

• Develop a strong, clear thesis statement with the proper elements.
• Revise your thesis statement.

Have you ever known a person who was not very good at telling stories? You probably had trouble following his train of thought as he jumped around from point to point, either being too brief in places that needed further explanation or providing too many details on a meaningless element. Maybe he told the end of the story first, then moved to the beginning and later added details to the middle. His ideas were probably scattered, and the story did not flow very well. When the story was over, you probably had many questions.

Just as a personal anecdote can be a disorganized mess, an essay can fall into the same trap of being out of order and confusing. That is why writers need a thesis statement to provide a specific focus for their essay and to organize what they are about to discuss in the body.

Just like a topic sentence summarizes a single paragraph, the thesis statement summarizes an entire essay. It tells the reader the point you want to make in your essay, while the essay itself supports that point. It is like a signpost that signals the essay’s destination. You should form your thesis before you begin to organize an essay, but you may find that it needs revision as the essay develops.

Elements of a Thesis Statement

For every essay you write, you must focus on a central idea. This idea stems from a topic you have chosen or been assigned or from a question your teacher has asked. It is not enough merely to discuss a general topic or simply answer a question with a yes or no. You have to form a specific opinion, and then articulate that into a controlling idea —the main idea upon which you build your thesis.

Remember that a thesis is not the topic itself, but rather your interpretation of the question or subject. For whatever topic your professor gives you, you must ask yourself, “What do I want to say about it?” Asking and then answering this question is vital to forming a thesis that is precise, forceful and confident.

A thesis is one sentence long and appears toward the end of your introduction. It is specific and focuses on one to three points of a single idea—points that are able to be demonstrated in the body. It forecasts the content of the essay and suggests how you will organize your information. Remember that a thesis statement does not summarize an issue but rather dissects it.

A Strong Thesis Statement

A strong thesis statement contains the following qualities.

Specificity. A thesis statement must concentrate on a specific area of a general topic. As you may recall, the creation of a thesis statement begins when you choose a broad subject and then narrow down its parts until you pinpoint a specific aspect of that topic. For example, health care is a broad topic, but a proper thesis statement would focus on a specific area of that topic, such as options for individuals without health care coverage.

Precision. A strong thesis statement must be precise enough to allow for a coherent argument and to remain focused on the topic. If the specific topic is options for individuals without health care coverage, then your precise thesis statement must make an exact claim about it, such as that limited options exist for those who are uninsured by their employers. You must further pinpoint what you are going to discuss regarding these limited effects, such as whom they affect and what the cause is.

Ability to be argued. A thesis statement must present a relevant and specific argument. A factual statement often is not considered arguable. Be sure your thesis statement contains a point of view that can be supported with evidence.

Ability to be demonstrated. For any claim you make in your thesis, you must be able to provide reasons and examples for your opinion. You can rely on personal observations in order to do this, or you can consult outside sources to demonstrate that what you assert is valid. A worthy argument is backed by examples and details.

Forcefulness. A thesis statement that is forceful shows readers that you are, in fact, making an argument. The tone is assertive and takes a stance that others might oppose.

Confidence. In addition to using force in your thesis statement, you must also use confidence in your claim. Phrases such as I feel or I believe actually weaken the readers’ sense of your confidence because these phrases imply that you are the only person who feels the way you do. In other words, your stance has insufficient backing. Taking an authoritative stance on the matter persuades your readers to have faith in your argument and open their minds to what you have to say.

Even in a personal essay that allows the use of first person, your thesis should not contain phrases such as in my opinion or I believe . These statements reduce your credibility and weaken your argument. Your opinion is more convincing when you use a firm attitude.

On a separate sheet of paper, write a thesis statement for each of the following topics. Remember to make each statement specific, precise, demonstrable, forceful and confident.

• Texting while driving
• The legal drinking age in the United States
• Steroid use among professional athletes

Examples of Appropriate Thesis Statements

Each of the following thesis statements meets several of the following requirements:

• Specificity
• Ability to be argued
• Ability to be demonstrated
• Forcefulness
• The societal and personal struggles of Troy Maxon in the play Fences symbolize the challenge of black males who lived through segregation and integration in the United States.
• Closing all American borders for a period of five years is one solution that will tackle illegal immigration.
• Shakespeare’s use of dramatic irony in Romeo and Juliet spoils the outcome for the audience and weakens the plot.
• J. D. Salinger’s character in Catcher in the Rye , Holden Caulfield, is a confused rebel who voices his disgust with phonies, yet in an effort to protect himself, he acts like a phony on many occasions.
• Compared to an absolute divorce, no-fault divorce is less expensive, promotes fairer settlements, and reflects a more realistic view of the causes for marital breakdown.
• Exposing children from an early age to the dangers of drug abuse is a sure method of preventing future drug addicts.
• In today’s crumbling job market, a high school diploma is not significant enough education to land a stable, lucrative job.

You can find thesis statements in many places, such as in the news; in the opinions of friends, coworkers or teachers; and even in songs you hear on the radio. Become aware of thesis statements in everyday life by paying attention to people’s opinions and their reasons for those opinions. Pay attention to your own everyday thesis statements as well, as these can become material for future essays.

Now that you have read about the contents of a good thesis statement and have seen examples, take a look at the pitfalls to avoid when composing your own thesis:

A thesis is weak when it is simply a declaration of your subject or a description of what you will discuss in your essay.

Weak thesis statement: My paper will explain why imagination is more important than knowledge.

A thesis is weak when it makes an unreasonable or outrageous claim or insults the opposing side.

Weak thesis statement: Religious radicals across America are trying to legislate their Puritanical beliefs by banning required high school books.

A thesis is weak when it contains an obvious fact or something that no one can disagree with or provides a dead end.

Weak thesis statement: Advertising companies use sex to sell their products.

A thesis is weak when the statement is too broad.

Weak thesis statement: The life of Abraham Lincoln was long and challenging.

Read the following thesis statements. On a separate piece of paper, identify each as weak or strong. For those that are weak, list the reasons why. Then revise the weak statements so that they conform to the requirements of a strong thesis.

• The subject of this paper is my experience with ferrets as pets.
• The government must expand its funding for research on renewable energy resources in order to prepare for the impending end of oil.
• Edgar Allan Poe was a poet who lived in Baltimore during the nineteenth century.
• In this essay, I will give you lots of reasons why slot machines should not be legalized in Baltimore.
• Despite his promises during his campaign, President Kennedy took few executive measures to support civil rights legislation.
• Because many children’s toys have potential safety hazards that could lead to injury, it is clear that not all children’s toys are safe.
• My experience with young children has taught me that I want to be a disciplinary parent because I believe that a child without discipline can be a parent’s worst nightmare.

Writing at Work

Often in your career, you will need to ask your boss for something through an e-mail. Just as a thesis statement organizes an essay, it can also organize your e-mail request. While your e-mail will be shorter than an essay, using a thesis statement in your first paragraph quickly lets your boss know what you are asking for, why it is necessary, and what the benefits are. In short body paragraphs, you can provide the essential information needed to expand upon your request.

Thesis Statement Revision

Your thesis will probably change as you write, so you will need to modify it to reflect exactly what you have discussed in your essay. Remember from Chapter 8 “The Writing Process: How Do I Begin?” that your thesis statement begins as a working thesis statement , an indefinite statement that you make about your topic early in the writing process for the purpose of planning and guiding your writing.

Working thesis statements often become stronger as you gather information and form new opinions and reasons for those opinions. Revision helps you strengthen your thesis so that it matches what you have expressed in the body of the paper.

The best way to revise your thesis statement is to ask questions about it and then examine the answers to those questions. By challenging your own ideas and forming definite reasons for those ideas, you grow closer to a more precise point of view, which you can then incorporate into your thesis statement.

Ways to Revise Your Thesis

You can cut down on irrelevant aspects and revise your thesis by taking the following steps:

1. Pinpoint and replace all nonspecific words, such as people , everything , society , or life , with more precise words in order to reduce any vagueness.

Working thesis: Young people have to work hard to succeed in life.

Revised thesis: Recent college graduates must have discipline and persistence in order to find and maintain a stable job in which they can use and be appreciated for their talents.

The revised thesis makes a more specific statement about success and what it means to work hard. The original includes too broad a range of people and does not define exactly what success entails. By replacing those general words like people and work hard , the writer can better focus his or her research and gain more direction in his or her writing.

2. Clarify ideas that need explanation by asking yourself questions that narrow your thesis.

Working thesis: The welfare system is a joke.

Revised thesis: The welfare system keeps a socioeconomic class from gaining employment by alluring members of that class with unearned income, instead of programs to improve their education and skill sets.

A joke means many things to many people. Readers bring all sorts of backgrounds and perspectives to the reading process and would need clarification for a word so vague. This expression may also be too informal for the selected audience. By asking questions, the writer can devise a more precise and appropriate explanation for joke . The writer should ask himself or herself questions similar to the 5WH questions. (See Chapter 8 “The Writing Process: How Do I Begin?” for more information on the 5WH questions.) By incorporating the answers to these questions into a thesis statement, the writer more accurately defines his or her stance, which will better guide the writing of the essay.

3. Replace any linking verbs with action verbs. Linking verbs are forms of the verb to be , a verb that simply states that a situation exists.

Working thesis: Kansas City schoolteachers are not paid enough.

Revised thesis: The Kansas City legislature cannot afford to pay its educators, resulting in job cuts and resignations in a district that sorely needs highly qualified and dedicated teachers.

The linking verb in this working thesis statement is the word are . Linking verbs often make thesis statements weak because they do not express action. Rather, they connect words and phrases to the second half of the sentence. Readers might wonder, “Why are they not paid enough?” But this statement does not compel them to ask many more questions. The writer should ask himself or herself questions in order to replace the linking verb with an action verb, thus forming a stronger thesis statement, one that takes a more definitive stance on the issue:

• Who is not paying the teachers enough?
• What is considered “enough”?
• What is the problem?
• What are the results

4. Omit any general claims that are hard to support.

Working thesis: Today’s teenage girls are too sexualized.

Revised thesis: Teenage girls who are captivated by the sexual images on MTV are conditioned to believe that a woman’s worth depends on her sensuality, a feeling that harms their self-esteem and behavior.

It is true that some young women in today’s society are more sexualized than in the past, but that is not true for all girls. Many girls have strict parents, dress appropriately, and do not engage in sexual activity while in middle school and high school. The writer of this thesis should ask the following questions:

• Which teenage girls?
• What constitutes “too” sexualized?
• Why are they behaving that way?
• Where does this behavior show up?
• What are the repercussions?

In the first section of Chapter 8 “The Writing Process: How Do I Begin?” , you determined your purpose for writing and your audience. You then completed a freewriting exercise about an event you recently experienced and chose a general topic to write about. Using that general topic, you then narrowed it down by answering the 5WH questions. After you answered these questions, you chose one of the three methods of prewriting and gathered possible supporting points for your working thesis statement.

Now, on a separate sheet of paper, write down your working thesis statement. Identify any weaknesses in this sentence and revise the statement to reflect the elements of a strong thesis statement. Make sure it is specific, precise, arguable, demonstrable, forceful, and confident.

Collaboration

Please share with a classmate and compare your answers.

In your career you may have to write a project proposal that focuses on a particular problem in your company, such as reinforcing the tardiness policy. The proposal would aim to fix the problem; using a thesis statement would clearly state the boundaries of the problem and tell the goals of the project. After writing the proposal, you may find that the thesis needs revision to reflect exactly what is expressed in the body. Using the techniques from this chapter would apply to revising that thesis.

Key Takeaways

• Proper essays require a thesis statement to provide a specific focus and suggest how the essay will be organized.
• A thesis statement is your interpretation of the subject, not the topic itself.
• A strong thesis is specific, precise, forceful, confident, and is able to be demonstrated.
• A strong thesis challenges readers with a point of view that can be debated and can be supported with evidence.
• A weak thesis is simply a declaration of your topic or contains an obvious fact that cannot be argued.
• Depending on your topic, it may or may not be appropriate to use first person point of view.
• Revise your thesis by ensuring all words are specific, all ideas are exact, and all verbs express action.

Writing for Success Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement: 4 Steps + Examples

What’s Covered:

What is the purpose of a thesis statement, writing a good thesis statement: 4 steps, common pitfalls to avoid, where to get your essay edited for free.

When you set out to write an essay, there has to be some kind of point to it, right? Otherwise, your essay would just be a big jumble of word salad that makes absolutely no sense. An essay needs a central point that ties into everything else. That main point is called a thesis statement, and it’s the core of any essay or research paper.

You may hear about Master degree candidates writing a thesis, and that is an entire paper–not to be confused with the thesis statement, which is typically one sentence that contains your paper’s focus. 

Read on to learn more about thesis statements and how to write them. We’ve also included some solid examples for you to reference.

Typically the last sentence of your introductory paragraph, the thesis statement serves as the roadmap for your essay. When your reader gets to the thesis statement, they should have a clear outline of your main point, as well as the information you’ll be presenting in order to either prove or support your point. 

The thesis statement should not be confused for a topic sentence , which is the first sentence of every paragraph in your essay. If you need help writing topic sentences, numerous resources are available. Topic sentences should go along with your thesis statement, though.

Since the thesis statement is the most important sentence of your entire essay or paper, it’s imperative that you get this part right. Otherwise, your paper will not have a good flow and will seem disjointed. That’s why it’s vital not to rush through developing one. It’s a methodical process with steps that you need to follow in order to create the best thesis statement possible.

Step 1: Decide what kind of paper you’re writing

When you’re assigned an essay, there are several different types you may get. Argumentative essays are designed to get the reader to agree with you on a topic. Informative or expository essays present information to the reader. Analytical essays offer up a point and then expand on it by analyzing relevant information. Thesis statements can look and sound different based on the type of paper you’re writing. For example:

• Argumentative: The United States needs a viable third political party to decrease bipartisanship, increase options, and help reduce corruption in government.
• Informative: The Libertarian party has thrown off elections before by gaining enough support in states to get on the ballot and by taking away crucial votes from candidates.
• Analytical: An analysis of past presidential elections shows that while third party votes may have been the minority, they did affect the outcome of the elections in 2020, 2016, and beyond.

Step 2: Figure out what point you want to make

Once you know what type of paper you’re writing, you then need to figure out the point you want to make with your thesis statement, and subsequently, your paper. In other words, you need to decide to answer a question about something, such as:

• What impact did reality TV have on American society?
• How has the musical Hamilton affected perception of American history?
• Why do I want to major in [chosen major here]?

If you have an argumentative essay, then you will be writing about an opinion. To make it easier, you may want to choose an opinion that you feel passionate about so that you’re writing about something that interests you. For example, if you have an interest in preserving the environment, you may want to choose a topic that relates to that. 

If you’re writing your college essay and they ask why you want to attend that school, you may want to have a main point and back it up with information, something along the lines of:

“Attending Harvard University would benefit me both academically and professionally, as it would give me a strong knowledge base upon which to build my career, develop my network, and hopefully give me an advantage in my chosen field.”

Step 3: Determine what information you’ll use to back up your point

Once you have the point you want to make, you need to figure out how you plan to back it up throughout the rest of your essay. Without this information, it will be hard to either prove or argue the main point of your thesis statement. If you decide to write about the Hamilton example, you may decide to address any falsehoods that the writer put into the musical, such as:

“The musical Hamilton, while accurate in many ways, leaves out key parts of American history, presents a nationalist view of founding fathers, and downplays the racism of the times.”

Once you’ve written your initial working thesis statement, you’ll then need to get information to back that up. For example, the musical completely leaves out Benjamin Franklin, portrays the founding fathers in a nationalist way that is too complimentary, and shows Hamilton as a staunch abolitionist despite the fact that his family likely did own slaves. 

Step 4: Revise and refine your thesis statement before you start writing

Read through your thesis statement several times before you begin to compose your full essay. You need to make sure the statement is ironclad, since it is the foundation of the entire paper. Edit it or have a peer review it for you to make sure everything makes sense and that you feel like you can truly write a paper on the topic. Once you’ve done that, you can then begin writing your paper.

When writing a thesis statement, there are some common pitfalls you should avoid so that your paper can be as solid as possible. Make sure you always edit the thesis statement before you do anything else. You also want to ensure that the thesis statement is clear and concise. Don’t make your reader hunt for your point. Finally, put your thesis statement at the end of the first paragraph and have your introduction flow toward that statement. Your reader will expect to find your statement in its traditional spot.

If you’re having trouble getting started, or need some guidance on your essay, there are tools available that can help you. CollegeVine offers a free peer essay review tool where one of your peers can read through your essay and provide you with valuable feedback. Getting essay feedback from a peer can help you wow your instructor or college admissions officer with an impactful essay that effectively illustrates your point.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

Reference management. Clean and simple.

How to write a thesis statement + examples

What is a thesis statement?

Is a thesis statement a question, how do you write a good thesis statement, how do i know if my thesis statement is good, examples of thesis statements, helpful resources on how to write a thesis statement, frequently asked questions about writing a thesis statement, related articles.

A thesis statement is the main argument of your paper or thesis.

The thesis statement is one of the most important elements of any piece of academic writing . It is a brief statement of your paper’s main argument. Essentially, you are stating what you will be writing about.

You can see your thesis statement as an answer to a question. While it also contains the question, it should really give an answer to the question with new information and not just restate or reiterate it.

Your thesis statement is part of your introduction. Learn more about how to write a good thesis introduction in our introduction guide .

A thesis statement is not a question. A statement must be arguable and provable through evidence and analysis. While your thesis might stem from a research question, it should be in the form of a statement.

Tip: A thesis statement is typically 1-2 sentences. For a longer project like a thesis, the statement may be several sentences or a paragraph.

A good thesis statement needs to do the following:

• Condense the main idea of your thesis into one or two sentences.
• Answer your project’s main research question.
• Clearly state your position in relation to the topic .
• Make an argument that requires support or evidence.

Once you have written down a thesis statement, check if it fulfills the following criteria:

• Your statement needs to be provable by evidence. As an argument, a thesis statement needs to be debatable.
• Your statement needs to be precise. Do not give away too much information in the thesis statement and do not load it with unnecessary information.
• Your statement cannot say that one solution is simply right or simply wrong as a matter of fact. You should draw upon verified facts to persuade the reader of your solution, but you cannot just declare something as right or wrong.

As previously mentioned, your thesis statement should answer a question.

If the question is:

What do you think the City of New York should do to reduce traffic congestion?

A good thesis statement restates the question and answers it:

In this paper, I will argue that the City of New York should focus on providing exclusive lanes for public transport and adaptive traffic signals to reduce traffic congestion by the year 2035.

Here is another example. If the question is:

How can we end poverty?

A good thesis statement should give more than one solution to the problem in question:

In this paper, I will argue that introducing universal basic income can help reduce poverty and positively impact the way we work.

• The Writing Center of the University of North Carolina has a list of questions to ask to see if your thesis is strong .

A thesis statement is part of the introduction of your paper. It is usually found in the first or second paragraph to let the reader know your research purpose from the beginning.

In general, a thesis statement should have one or two sentences. But the length really depends on the overall length of your project. Take a look at our guide about the length of thesis statements for more insight on this topic.

Here is a list of Thesis Statement Examples that will help you understand better how to write them.

Every good essay should include a thesis statement as part of its introduction, no matter the academic level. Of course, if you are a high school student you are not expected to have the same type of thesis as a PhD student.

Here is a great YouTube tutorial showing How To Write An Essay: Thesis Statements .

• Skip to Content
• Skip to Main Navigation
• Skip to Search

Indiana University Bloomington Indiana University Bloomington IU Bloomington

• Mission, Vision, and Inclusive Language Statement
• Locations & Hours
• Undergraduate Employment
• Graduate Employment
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Newsletter Archive
• Support WTS
• Schedule an Appointment
• Online Tutoring
• Before your Appointment
• WTS Policies
• Group Tutoring
• Students Referred by Instructors
• Paid External Editing Services
• Writing Guides
• Scholarly Write-in
• Dissertation Writing Groups
• Journal Article Writing Groups
• Early Career Graduate Student Writing Workshop
• Workshops for Graduate Students
• Teaching Resources
• Syllabus Information
• Course-specific Tutoring
• Nominate a Peer Tutor
• Tutoring Feedback
• Schedule Appointment
• Campus Writing Program

Writing Tutorial Services

How to write a thesis statement, what is a thesis statement.

Almost all of us—even if we don’t do it consciously—look early in an essay for a one- or two-sentence condensation of the argument or analysis that is to follow. We refer to that condensation as a thesis statement.

Why Should Your Essay Contain a Thesis Statement?

• to test your ideas by distilling them into a sentence or two
• to better organize and develop your argument
• to provide your reader with a “guide” to your argument

In general, your thesis statement will accomplish these goals if you think of the thesis as the answer to the question your paper explores.

How Can You Write a Good Thesis Statement?

Here are some helpful hints to get you started. You can either scroll down or select a link to a specific topic.

How to Generate a Thesis Statement if the Topic is Assigned How to Generate a Thesis Statement if the Topic is not Assigned How to Tell a Strong Thesis Statement from a Weak One

How to Generate a Thesis Statement if the Topic is Assigned

Almost all assignments, no matter how complicated, can be reduced to a single question. Your first step, then, is to distill the assignment into a specific question. For example, if your assignment is, “Write a report to the local school board explaining the potential benefits of using computers in a fourth-grade class,” turn the request into a question like, “What are the potential benefits of using computers in a fourth-grade class?” After you’ve chosen the question your essay will answer, compose one or two complete sentences answering that question.

Q: “What are the potential benefits of using computers in a fourth-grade class?” A: “The potential benefits of using computers in a fourth-grade class are . . .”

A: “Using computers in a fourth-grade class promises to improve . . .”

The answer to the question is the thesis statement for the essay.

[ Back to top ]

How to Generate a Thesis Statement if the Topic is not Assigned

Even if your assignment doesn’t ask a specific question, your thesis statement still needs to answer a question about the issue you’d like to explore. In this situation, your job is to figure out what question you’d like to write about.

A good thesis statement will usually include the following four attributes:

• take on a subject upon which reasonable people could disagree
• deal with a subject that can be adequately treated given the nature of the assignment
• express one main idea
• assert your conclusions about a subject

Let’s see how to generate a thesis statement for a social policy paper.

Brainstorm the topic . Let’s say that your class focuses upon the problems posed by changes in the dietary habits of Americans. You find that you are interested in the amount of sugar Americans consume.

You start out with a thesis statement like this:

Sugar consumption.

This fragment isn’t a thesis statement. Instead, it simply indicates a general subject. Furthermore, your reader doesn’t know what you want to say about sugar consumption.

Narrow the topic . Your readings about the topic, however, have led you to the conclusion that elementary school children are consuming far more sugar than is healthy.

You change your thesis to look like this:

Reducing sugar consumption by elementary school children.

This fragment not only announces your subject, but it focuses on one segment of the population: elementary school children. Furthermore, it raises a subject upon which reasonable people could disagree, because while most people might agree that children consume more sugar than they used to, not everyone would agree on what should be done or who should do it. You should note that this fragment is not a thesis statement because your reader doesn’t know your conclusions on the topic.

Take a position on the topic. After reflecting on the topic a little while longer, you decide that what you really want to say about this topic is that something should be done to reduce the amount of sugar these children consume.

You revise your thesis statement to look like this:

More attention should be paid to the food and beverage choices available to elementary school children.

This statement asserts your position, but the terms more attention and food and beverage choices are vague.

Use specific language . You decide to explain what you mean about food and beverage choices , so you write:

Experts estimate that half of elementary school children consume nine times the recommended daily allowance of sugar.

This statement is specific, but it isn’t a thesis. It merely reports a statistic instead of making an assertion.

Make an assertion based on clearly stated support. You finally revise your thesis statement one more time to look like this:

Because half of all American elementary school children consume nine times the recommended daily allowance of sugar, schools should be required to replace the beverages in soda machines with healthy alternatives.

Notice how the thesis answers the question, “What should be done to reduce sugar consumption by children, and who should do it?” When you started thinking about the paper, you may not have had a specific question in mind, but as you became more involved in the topic, your ideas became more specific. Your thesis changed to reflect your new insights.

How to Tell a Strong Thesis Statement from a Weak One

1. a strong thesis statement takes some sort of stand..

Remember that your thesis needs to show your conclusions about a subject. For example, if you are writing a paper for a class on fitness, you might be asked to choose a popular weight-loss product to evaluate. Here are two thesis statements:

There are some negative and positive aspects to the Banana Herb Tea Supplement.

This is a weak thesis statement. First, it fails to take a stand. Second, the phrase negative and positive aspects is vague.

Because Banana Herb Tea Supplement promotes rapid weight loss that results in the loss of muscle and lean body mass, it poses a potential danger to customers.

This is a strong thesis because it takes a stand, and because it's specific.

2. A strong thesis statement justifies discussion.

Your thesis should indicate the point of the discussion. If your assignment is to write a paper on kinship systems, using your own family as an example, you might come up with either of these two thesis statements:

My family is an extended family.

This is a weak thesis because it merely states an observation. Your reader won’t be able to tell the point of the statement, and will probably stop reading.

While most American families would view consanguineal marriage as a threat to the nuclear family structure, many Iranian families, like my own, believe that these marriages help reinforce kinship ties in an extended family.

This is a strong thesis because it shows how your experience contradicts a widely-accepted view. A good strategy for creating a strong thesis is to show that the topic is controversial. Readers will be interested in reading the rest of the essay to see how you support your point.

3. A strong thesis statement expresses one main idea.

Readers need to be able to see that your paper has one main point. If your thesis statement expresses more than one idea, then you might confuse your readers about the subject of your paper. For example:

Companies need to exploit the marketing potential of the Internet, and Web pages can provide both advertising and customer support.

This is a weak thesis statement because the reader can’t decide whether the paper is about marketing on the Internet or Web pages. To revise the thesis, the relationship between the two ideas needs to become more clear. One way to revise the thesis would be to write:

Because the Internet is filled with tremendous marketing potential, companies should exploit this potential by using Web pages that offer both advertising and customer support.

This is a strong thesis because it shows that the two ideas are related. Hint: a great many clear and engaging thesis statements contain words like because , since , so , although , unless , and however .

4. A strong thesis statement is specific.

A thesis statement should show exactly what your paper will be about, and will help you keep your paper to a manageable topic. For example, if you're writing a seven-to-ten page paper on hunger, you might say:

World hunger has many causes and effects.

This is a weak thesis statement for two major reasons. First, world hunger can’t be discussed thoroughly in seven to ten pages. Second, many causes and effects is vague. You should be able to identify specific causes and effects. A revised thesis might look like this:

Hunger persists in Glandelinia because jobs are scarce and farming in the infertile soil is rarely profitable.

This is a strong thesis statement because it narrows the subject to a more specific and manageable topic, and it also identifies the specific causes for the existence of hunger.

Produced by Writing Tutorial Services, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN

Writing Tutorial Services social media channels

3 Point Thesis Statement

A 3-point thesis statement is a concise yet potent tool that outlines the main arguments of your paper. By presenting three key points, it guides readers through your central ideas and supports your position. In this guide, we’ll explore how to create compelling 3-point thesis statements , along with valuable tips to ensure clarity, coherence, and persuasive strength in your academic writing.

Definition of a 3 Point Thesis Statement

A 3-point thesis statement is a succinct and focused sentence that outlines the main arguments or points you intend to address in your paper. It serves as a roadmap for your readers, indicating the core topics or themes you’ll explore while presenting your stance or perspective on a particular issue.

Example of a 3 Point Thesis Statement

Topic: The Impact of Climate Change on Biodiversity

Thesis Statement: “The accelerating effects of climate change threaten global biodiversity through temperature shifts, habitat degradation, and altered migration patterns.”

In this example, the 3-point thesis statement clearly presents the three main points that will be discussed in the paper: temperature shifts, habitat degradation, and altered migration patterns. These points provide a structured framework for the upcoming argumentative analysis.

100 Three Point Thesis Statement Examples

Size: 643 KB

A 3-point thesis statement succinctly outlines central arguments, providing a roadmap for focused discussions. Below are 100 examples spanning various subjects, each followed by a brief 60-word description:

• Cyberbullying Effects on Adolescents Cyberbullying adversely impacts adolescents’ mental health, self-esteem, and academic performance. This thesis addresses the detrimental effects of cyberbullying on adolescents’ psychological well-being, academic achievement, and self-perception.
• Renewable Energy Solutions Renewable energy systems contribute to sustainability through reduced emissions, resource conservation, and energy independence. This thesis explores the multifaceted benefits of renewable energy, including its role in combating climate change, conserving resources, and fostering energy autonomy.
• Gender Stereotypes in Media Media perpetuates gender stereotypes through representation, roles, and normalized behaviors. Focusing on media’s influence, this thesis analyzes how gender stereotypes are reinforced through portrayal, societal roles, and the reinforcement of normalized behaviors.
• The Impact of Social Media on Politics Social media shapes political discourse by influencing awareness, engagement, and public opinion. Examining the intersection of technology and politics, this thesis delves into how social media platforms shape political discussions by impacting awareness, engagement, and public sentiment.
• Cultural Diversity in Education Incorporating diverse perspectives in education enhances critical thinking, empathy, and global understanding. This thesis underscores the significance of integrating diverse viewpoints into educational curricula, fostering skills such as critical thinking, empathy, and cross-cultural awareness.
• Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Market Artificial intelligence transforms employment landscapes by reshaping job roles, skill demands, and the need for adaptability. Investigating AI’s influence on jobs, this thesis explores how automation shifts job responsibilities, necessitates new skills, and emphasizes the importance of adaptability.
• Effects of Social Media on Teenage Body Image Social media shapes teenage body image through comparisons, idealized representations, and societal beauty standards. This thesis delves into how social media influences teenagers’ perceptions of body image by promoting comparisons, unrealistic ideals, and cultural beauty norms.
• Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering Genetic engineering raises ethical concerns over altering organisms, patenting life forms, and unforeseen ecological consequences. Analyzing the ethical dimensions, this thesis examines debates surrounding genetic modification, including ethical dilemmas, intellectual property, and environmental risks.
• Education’s Role in Addressing Poverty Education is a catalyst for poverty alleviation by fostering skills, knowledge, and socio-economic mobility. This thesis emphasizes education’s pivotal role in breaking the cycle of poverty through skill development, knowledge acquisition, and improved economic prospects.
• Media’s Influence on Political Polarization Media exacerbates political polarization by disseminating biased information, echo chambers, and fostering extremism. Investigating media’s role, this thesis explores how biased reporting, echo chambers, and extremist content contribute to the widening political divide.
• Environmental Conservation and Economic Growth Environmental conservation and economic growth can coexist through sustainable practices, green technologies, and eco-tourism. This thesis examines the compatibility of preserving the environment and promoting economic development by emphasizing sustainable practices, technology, and eco-friendly industries.
• Impacts of Social Media on Interpersonal Relationships Social media alters interpersonal relationships by affecting communication dynamics, intimacy, and personal interactions. Exploring technology’s influence on relationships, this thesis analyzes how social media shapes communication patterns, intimacy levels, and face-to-face interactions.
• Globalization’s Effects on Cultural Diversity Globalization both enriches and endangers cultural diversity through cultural exchange, homogenization, and cultural appropriation. This thesis examines globalization’s dual effects, including the enrichment of cultural exchange and the challenges of cultural homogenization and appropriation.
• The Role of Education in Promoting Environmental Stewardship Education fosters environmental stewardship by instilling awareness, responsibility, and sustainable behaviors. Addressing the intersection of education and the environment, this thesis underscores how education cultivates environmental consciousness, accountability, and sustainable practices.
• Artificial Intelligence and Healthcare Diagnostics Artificial intelligence revolutionizes healthcare diagnostics through precise analysis, early detection, and improved patient outcomes. Exploring AI’s impact on healthcare, this thesis assesses how AI enhances medical diagnoses by providing accurate analyses, detecting conditions earlier, and optimizing patient care.
• Media’s Influence on Consumer Behavior Media shapes consumer behavior by creating desires, trends, and influencing purchasing decisions. Focusing on media’s sway, this thesis examines how advertising and media content drive consumer desires, shape trends, and impact buying choices.
• Education’s Role in Fostering Tolerance and Inclusion Education cultivates tolerance and inclusion by promoting empathy, understanding, and dismantling stereotypes. This thesis highlights how education plays a vital role in creating inclusive societies through empathy-building, stereotype deconstruction, and fostering understanding.
• Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence Development Ethical concerns surround AI development due to bias, privacy invasion, and the potential for autonomous decision-making. Addressing the ethical dimensions, this thesis evaluates the moral implications associated with AI development, including issues of bias, privacy, and decision-making autonomy.
• Media’s Influence on Political Engagement Media influences political engagement by shaping public opinion, mobilizing activism, and framing political narratives. Examining media’s role in politics, this thesis analyzes how media outlets shape public perceptions, drive activism, and contribute to the framing of political issues.
• Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security Sustainable agriculture ensures food security through ecological practices, crop diversity, and responsible resource management. Investigating the relationship between agriculture and food security, this thesis explores how sustainable practices, diverse crops, and resource conservation bolster global food supplies
• Technology’s Impact on Education Technology transforms education through online learning, personalized instruction, and innovative teaching methods. Examining the intersection of technology and education, this thesis assesses how digital tools reshape learning environments, enhance personalization, and revolutionize teaching techniques.
• Effects of Social Media on Mental Health Social media affects mental health through comparison, cyberbullying, and the pressure of maintaining online personas. Investigating mental health implications, this thesis explores how social media contributes to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges through comparison, bullying, and curated online identities.
• The Role of Literature in Shaping Societal Norms Literature shapes societal norms by reflecting culture, challenging conventions, and fostering critical discourse. Examining literature’s impact, this thesis analyzes how literary works influence societal values, prompt reflection, and challenge established norms.
• Online Privacy and Personal Data Protection Online privacy hinges on protecting personal data from breaches, surveillance, and unauthorized use. Addressing digital security, this thesis explores the complexities of safeguarding personal information from cyber threats, unauthorized access, and surveillance.
• Media’s Role in Shaping Historical Narratives Media influences historical narratives by framing events, shaping memory, and emphasizing certain perspectives. Focusing on media’s historical impact, this thesis examines how media narratives influence collective memory, historical understanding, and the framing of significant events.
• Economic Inequality and Access to Education Economic inequality affects education access through disparities in resources, quality, and opportunities. Addressing the connection between wealth disparity and education, this thesis explores how economic inequalities impact access to quality education and opportunities.
• Influence of Social Media on Democracy Social media affects democracy by shaping political discourse, enabling citizen participation, and disseminating information. Examining the intersection of technology and politics, this thesis assesses how social media platforms influence democratic processes, political engagement, and information dissemination.
• Effects of Climate Change on Coastal Communities Climate change poses risks to coastal communities through rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and erosion. Investigating climate impacts, this thesis explores how rising temperatures and changing weather patterns threaten coastal areas with sea-level rise, storms, and erosion.
• The Role of Art in Cultural Preservation Art contributes to cultural preservation by conveying heritage, identity, and historical narratives. Focusing on artistic expression, this thesis examines how art serves as a vessel for cultural memory, preservation of traditions, and the portrayal of historical stories.
• Media’s Influence on Beauty Standards Media shapes beauty standards through idealized images, promoting unrealistic ideals, and setting cultural norms. Analyzing media’s role in shaping perceptions of beauty, this thesis explores how media images influence cultural definitions of attractiveness and self-worth.
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Ethics Artificial intelligence raises ethical concerns related to bias, decision-making, and the potential for autonomous systems. Addressing the ethical dimensions of AI, this thesis evaluates how machine learning technologies introduce ethical dilemmas in areas such as bias, decision-making, and autonomy.
• Literature’s Exploration of Social Injustice Literature critiques social injustice by depicting marginalized experiences, advocating for change, and prompting reflection. This thesis analyzes how literary works shed light on societal inequalities, advocate for marginalized voices, and inspire social change.
• Effects of Video Games on Cognitive Development Video games impact cognitive development through problem-solving, spatial awareness, and enhanced multitasking skills. Examining the influence of gaming, this thesis explores how interactive digital entertainment contributes to cognitive skill development in areas such as problem-solving and multitasking.
• The Role of Education in Gender Equality Education empowers gender equality by challenging stereotypes, promoting opportunities, and fostering inclusive mindsets. Addressing the intersection of education and gender, this thesis emphasizes how educational systems contribute to dismantling gender stereotypes, increasing opportunities, and promoting gender inclusivity.
• Effects of Social Media on News Consumption Social media shapes news consumption patterns through personalized feeds, viral content, and the spread of misinformation. Investigating media’s impact on news consumption, this thesis examines how social media algorithms, viral content, and misinformation affect the way individuals access and interpret news.
• Urbanization’s Impact on Mental Health Urbanization affects mental health through overcrowding, noise pollution, and limited access to green spaces. Exploring the psychological consequences of urban living, this thesis analyzes how city environments influence mental well-being through factors such as noise, density, and lack of natural spaces.
• The Role of Literature in Empathy Cultivation Literature cultivates empathy by portraying diverse experiences, fostering emotional connections, and promoting understanding. This thesis explores how literary narratives foster empathy by encouraging readers to connect emotionally with characters from various backgrounds and circumstances.
• Effects of Online Learning on Educational Equity Online learning impacts educational equity by addressing accessibility, offering flexible options, and widening disparities. Focusing on digital education, this thesis examines how online learning platforms both address and exacerbate disparities in education access and quality.
• Media’s Influence on Public Health Attitudes Media shapes public health attitudes by disseminating health information, addressing stigmas, and promoting healthy behaviors. Examining media’s role in health communication, this thesis analyzes how media platforms influence public perceptions, spread health-related information, and contribute to behavior change.
• Impact of Technology on Family Dynamics Technology affects family dynamics by altering communication, screen time habits, and the balance between virtual and face-to-face interactions. This thesis explores how technology influences the ways families communicate, spend time together, and navigate the integration of digital devices into daily life
• Impacts of Social Media on Teen Mental Health Social media influences teen mental health through comparison, online bullying, and the pressure to curate a perfect image. Focusing on adolescent well-being, this thesis examines how social media usage affects mental health, contributing to issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.
• The Role of Literature in Empowerment Literature empowers individuals by providing representation, voicing marginalized perspectives, and fostering a sense of agency. Addressing the transformative power of literature, this thesis explores how literary works empower individuals by offering diverse role models, amplifying underrepresented voices, and encouraging self-expression.
• Effects of Screen Time on Child Development Excessive screen time influences child development through cognitive impacts, sedentary behaviors, and altered social interactions. Investigating digital media’s impact on children, this thesis analyzes how prolonged screen time affects cognitive development, physical activity, and social skills in early childhood.
• Media’s Role in Shaping Cultural Identities Media influences cultural identities by reflecting representation, perpetuating stereotypes, and shaping societal perceptions. This thesis examines how media shapes cultural identities by influencing how different groups are represented, constructing stereotypes, and influencing cultural perceptions.
• The Impact of Online Shopping on Retail Industry Online shopping transforms the retail industry through convenience, global access, and the rise of e-commerce platforms. Focusing on the evolving retail landscape, this thesis explores how digital commerce platforms have revolutionized shopping behaviors, affecting traditional retail structures.
• The Role of Literature in Social Change Literature drives social change by sparking awareness, prompting activism, and encouraging critical engagement with societal issues. This thesis delves into how literature serves as a catalyst for social transformation by raising awareness, mobilizing readers, and advocating for change.
• Effects of Technology on Sleep Patterns Technology disrupts sleep patterns through blue light exposure, screen time before bed, and the impact on circadian rhythms. This thesis examines how technology usage, particularly before sleep, affects sleep quality, circadian rhythms, and overall well-being.
• Media’s Influence on Consumerism Media drives consumerism through advertising, influencing purchasing behavior, and shaping materialistic values. Investigating media’s impact on consumption, this thesis analyzes how advertisements, marketing strategies, and media content influence consumer choices and materialistic attitudes.
• The Impact of Virtual Reality on Education Virtual reality transforms education through immersive learning experiences, simulations, and interactive engagement. Exploring the intersection of technology and education, this thesis assesses how virtual reality enhances learning by creating immersive environments, simulations, and interactive content.
• Effects of Social Media on Friendship Dynamics Social media affects friendship dynamics by redefining connection, altering communication, and influencing group dynamics. Analyzing the digitalization of friendships, this thesis explores how social media platforms impact the nature of friendships, communication patterns, and group interactions.
• The Role of Literature in Fostering Resilience Literature fosters resilience by portraying characters’ coping strategies, resilience narratives, and encouraging emotional growth. This thesis highlights how literary narratives provide readers with insights into resilience strategies, offering examples of characters overcoming adversity and promoting emotional growth.
• Effects of Technology on Workplace Productivity Technology influences workplace productivity through automation, remote work tools, and digital communication platforms. Examining technology’s influence on work environments, this thesis assesses how digital tools enhance efficiency, promote remote collaboration, and reshape traditional work structures.
• Media’s Role in Public Opinion Formation Media shapes public opinion by framing news, influencing perceptions, and molding societal attitudes toward current events. Investigating media’s impact on public discourse, this thesis analyzes how media outlets influence public perceptions, frame news narratives, and contribute to the formation of public opinions.
• The Impact of Music on Mood Regulation Music influences mood regulation through emotional resonance, stress reduction, and the ability to evoke specific feelings. Focusing on the therapeutic effects of music, this thesis examines how music selection and listening habits impact emotional well-being, stress management, and mood enhancement.
• The Role of Literature in Environmental Awareness Literature raises environmental awareness by highlighting ecological issues, inspiring stewardship, and promoting sustainable values. Addressing the environmental impact of literature, this thesis explores how literary works contribute to environmental consciousness, advocacy for sustainable practices, and the dissemination of ecological knowledge.
• Effects of Online Communication on Language Evolution Online communication affects language evolution through text abbreviations, emojis, and the emergence of digital linguistic norms. Exploring the linguistic impact of digital communication, this thesis assesses how online platforms influence language evolution, leading to the emergence of new linguistic norms, abbreviations, and visual symbols.
• Media’s Influence on Political Participation Media shapes political participation by influencing voter engagement, political awareness, and mobilization efforts. Focusing on media’s role in democracy, this thesis analyzes how media platforms impact political engagement, disseminate information, and influence citizens’ participation in political processes.
• The Impact of Technology on Creative Expression Technology transforms creative expression through digital tools, online platforms, and innovative art forms. This thesis examines how technology empowers artists to explore new mediums, collaborate globally, and redefine creative boundaries in the digital age.
• The Role of Literature in Historical Preservation Literature preserves history by documenting cultural narratives, recording lived experiences, and offering insights into past societies. Addressing literature’s historical significance, this thesis explores how literary works serve as windows into past eras, preserving cultural memories and societal contexts.
• Effects of Video Game Violence on Aggression Video game violence influences aggression through desensitization, aggressive thoughts, and altered social behaviors. Investigating the psychological impact of gaming, this thesis analyzes how exposure to violent video games affects aggression levels, cognitive responses, and social interactions
• The Impact of Technology on Family Communication Technology alters family communication through digital devices, social media, and virtual interactions. Focusing on family dynamics, this thesis explores how technology affects communication patterns, family bonding, and the challenges of maintaining meaningful connections in the digital era.
• Effects of Social Media on Political Polarization Social media exacerbates political polarization through filter bubbles, echo chambers, and the reinforcement of ideological beliefs. Analyzing the relationship between social media and politics, this thesis investigates how online platforms contribute to the polarization of public opinion by reinforcing preexisting beliefs and narrowing exposure to diverse perspectives.
• The Role of Literature in Identity Formation Literature contributes to identity formation by reflecting cultural heritage, exploring self-discovery, and examining personal narratives. Addressing the intersection of literature and identity, this thesis explores how literary works contribute to the formation of individual and cultural identities, fostering self-awareness and cultural understanding.
• Effects of Technology on Human Relationships Technology impacts human relationships by altering social interactions, intimacy dynamics, and the balance between virtual and real-world connections. Investigating the influence of digital devices on interpersonal connections, this thesis examines how technology shapes the nature of relationships, emotional intimacy, and face-to-face interactions.
• Media’s Influence on Fear and Perception Media shapes fear and perception through sensationalism, framing, and the selective presentation of information. Focusing on media’s psychological impact, this thesis analyzes how media content affects public perceptions, triggers fear responses, and influences the framing of news events.
• The Impact of Technology on Privacy Technology challenges privacy through data collection, surveillance, and the blurring of online and offline boundaries. Addressing privacy concerns in the digital age, this thesis explores how technology threatens personal privacy by enabling data collection, surveillance practices, and the erosion of traditional boundaries between public and private spaces.
• Effects of Social Media on Body Image Social media influences body image through comparison, unrealistic beauty ideals, and promoting appearance-focused self-worth. Examining the psychological effects of digital media, this thesis assesses how social media platforms impact body image perceptions, self-esteem, and psychological well-being.
• The Role of Literature in Challenging Authority Literature challenges authority by critiquing power structures, questioning norms, and advocating for social change. Focusing on literature’s subversive potential, this thesis explores how literary works engage with themes of power, resistance, and social critique, challenging established authority and advocating for reform.
• Effects of Technology on Mental Health Technology influences mental health through screen addiction, social isolation, and the pressure to maintain an ideal online image. Investigating the relationship between technology usage and psychological well-being, this thesis analyzes how digital devices impact mental health, contributing to issues such as addiction, isolation, and negative self-comparisons.
• Media’s Role in Promoting Health Behaviors Media influences health behaviors by disseminating health information, promoting positive habits, and shaping public health narratives. Addressing media’s impact on public health, this thesis explores how media platforms contribute to health awareness, behavioral change, and the dissemination of health-related information.
• The Impact of Technology on Education Equity Technology impacts education equity by addressing access barriers, facilitating personalized learning, and promoting digital literacy. Focusing on technology’s educational implications, this thesis examines how digital tools can both bridge and exacerbate educational disparities, fostering access, inclusivity, and skills development.
• Effects of Social Media on Political Activism Social media amplifies political activism through digital mobilization, online advocacy, and the spread of social causes. Analyzing the role of technology in political engagement, this thesis assesses how social media platforms empower individuals and groups to mobilize for political change, share advocacy messages, and influence social issues.
• The Role of Literature in Promoting Empathy Literature fosters empathy by immersing readers in diverse experiences, building emotional connections, and enhancing understanding. Investigating literature’s capacity to cultivate compassion, this thesis explores how narrative empathy promotes understanding, encourages readers to embrace diverse perspectives, and fosters emotional resonance.
• Effects of Technology on Attention Span Technology impacts attention span through constant stimuli, information overload, and the allure of multitasking. Addressing technology’s cognitive effects, this thesis examines how digital devices influence attentional capabilities, cognitive focus, and the challenges of sustained concentration in a digitalized world.
• Media’s Influence on Political Disinformation Media platforms contribute to political disinformation through the spread of false information, echo chambers, and the manipulation of public opinion. Examining media’s role in disseminating misinformation, this thesis investigates how fake news, echo chambers, and algorithmic biases impact the accuracy of public discourse and democratic decision-making.
• The Impact of Technology on Creativity Technology enhances creativity through digital tools, collaborative platforms, and the democratization of creative expression. Focusing on the relationship between technology and creative processes, this thesis explores how digital innovations empower individuals to explore new artistic mediums, collaborate across boundaries, and engage in creative experimentation.
• Effects of Social Media on Political Engagement Social media influences political engagement through information dissemination, fostering online communities, and encouraging civic participation. This thesis investigates how social media platforms amplify political involvement by facilitating information-sharing, building virtual communities, and motivating individuals to engage in civic activities.
• The Role of Literature in Teaching Moral Lessons Literature imparts moral lessons by portraying ethical dilemmas, consequences of actions, and encouraging ethical reflection. Exploring literature’s moral dimensions, this thesis examines how literary narratives serve as vehicles for discussing ethical challenges, prompting readers to contemplate consequences and engage in moral reasoning.
• Effects of Technology on Physical Health Technology impacts physical health through sedentary behaviors, screen-related health issues, and disruptions to sleep patterns. Investigating the relationship between technology and physical well-being, this thesis analyzes how digital devices influence physical activity levels, posture, and overall health outcomes.
• Media’s Influence on Social Perception Media shapes social perception through portrayal, stereotypes, and influencing attitudes toward various societal groups. Analyzing media’s role in shaping public perceptions, this thesis assesses how media content constructs societal narratives, influences attitudes, and contributes to the formation of stereotypes
• The Impact of Technology on Privacy in Relationships Technology affects privacy in relationships through digital communication, surveillance concerns, and the blurring of boundaries. Focusing on the interplay of technology and personal relationships, this thesis explores how digital devices influence privacy dynamics, communication norms, and the challenges of maintaining boundaries.
• Effects of Social Media on Youth Empowerment Social media empowers youth through digital activism, amplification of voices, and the mobilization of social change. Investigating the role of social media in youth engagement, this thesis assesses how online platforms enable young individuals to advocate for causes, share perspectives, and shape societal narratives.
• The Role of Literature in Exploring Identity Literature explores identity by examining cultural heritage, personal experiences, and the journey of self-discovery. This thesis delves into how literature serves as a vehicle for individuals to explore their identities, offering insight into cultural backgrounds, personal struggles, and the quest for self-understanding.
• Effects of Technology on Memory and Cognitive Skills Technology impacts memory and cognitive skills through information overload, reliance on digital aids, and altered memory retention. Addressing technology’s cognitive effects, this thesis examines how digital devices influence memory processes, cognitive skills, and the capacity for deep learning and critical thinking.
• Media’s Influence on Political Trust Media shapes political trust through framing, information credibility, and influencing public perceptions of political figures. Analyzing media’s impact on political relationships, this thesis assesses how media coverage contributes to public trust or distrust in political institutions, leaders, and the information presented.
• The Impact of Technology on Language Evolution Technology influences language evolution through digital communication, new linguistic norms, and the emergence of online language varieties. Focusing on the linguistic impact of technology, this thesis explores how digital communication platforms contribute to the evolution of language, including the development of new forms and conventions.
• Effects of Social Media on Youth Mental Health Social media affects youth mental health through cyberbullying, the pressure to conform, and the impact of online peer comparisons. Investigating mental health challenges among young individuals, this thesis analyzes how social media contributes to anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues among adolescents.
• The Role of Literature in Promoting Social Justice Literature advocates for social justice by depicting injustice, amplifying marginalized voices, and inspiring collective action. Addressing literature’s role in advocating for equality, this thesis explores how literary narratives illuminate social injustices, empower marginalized communities, and prompt readers to engage in activism.
• Effects of Technology on Human Productivity Technology influences human productivity through automation, digital distractions, and the challenges of multitasking. Examining the interplay of technology and productivity, this thesis assesses how digital devices both enhance and hinder efficiency, time management, and task completion.
• Media’s Influence on Cultural Appropriation Media shapes cultural appropriation through portrayal, perpetuating stereotypes, and commodifying cultural elements. Focusing on media’s impact on cultural understanding, this thesis analyzes how media content contributes to cultural appropriation by presenting distorted portrayals and commodifying cultural practices.
• The Impact of Technology on Parenting Styles Technology influences parenting styles through digital device usage, screen time management, and the challenge of balancing virtual and real-world interactions. Investigating the intersection of technology and parenting, this thesis explores how digital devices shape parenting approaches, influence family dynamics, and affect children’s development.
• Effects of Social Media on Political Information Seeking Social media influences political information seeking through personalized news feeds, echo chambers, and filter bubbles. This thesis examines how social media platforms impact the way individuals access, interpret, and seek out political information, contributing to the customization and potential polarization of news consumption.
• The Role of Literature in Addressing Mental Health Stigma Literature challenges mental health stigma by portraying mental health experiences, fostering empathy, and promoting open conversations. Focusing on the intersection of literature and mental health, this thesis explores how literary narratives contribute to destigmatizing mental health challenges by portraying characters’ struggles, emotions, and journeys to recovery.
• Effects of Technology on Social Interaction Technology influences social interaction through digital communication, altered face-to-face interactions, and the challenges of maintaining personal connections. Analyzing technology’s impact on human relationships, this thesis assesses how digital devices shape the ways individuals connect, communicate, and experience social interactions.
• Media’s Influence on Political Spin and Manipulation Media platforms contribute to political spin through biased reporting, framing, and the manipulation of public perception. Investigating media’s role in political communication, this thesis analyzes how media outlets shape public opinion by framing news narratives, promoting specific agendas, and influencing political discourse.
• The Impact of Technology on Learning Styles Technology transforms learning styles through personalized education, online resources, and the shift toward digital learning environments. Focusing on educational advancements, this thesis explores how technology accommodates diverse learning styles, fosters individualized instruction, and alters the way students engage with educational content.
• Effects of Social Media on Civic Engagement Social media influences civic engagement through digital activism, online petitions, and the mobilization of collective action. This thesis examines how social media platforms empower individuals to engage in civic activities, advocate for social change, and participate in online campaigns.
• The Role of Literature in Navigating Grief and Loss Literature provides solace in grief and loss by depicting the complexities of mourning, offering catharsis, and promoting emotional healing. Addressing literature’s role in emotional support, this thesis explores how literary narratives provide readers with ways to navigate the emotional challenges of grief, loss, and mourning.
• Effects of Technology on Environmental Awareness Technology impacts environmental awareness through online campaigns, virtual experiences, and the dissemination of environmental information. Investigating technology’s ecological impact, this thesis analyzes how digital platforms raise awareness about environmental issues, connect individuals with nature, and inspire pro-environmental behaviors.
• Media’s Influence on Public Perception of Climate Change Media shapes public perception of climate change through framing, information presentation, and the portrayal of scientific consensus. Focusing on the media’s role in environmental discourse, this thesis assesses how media coverage impacts public understanding of climate change, influencing attitudes, policy discussions, and societal responses.

3 Point Thesis Statement Examples for Argumentative Essay

• Gun Control Stricter gun control laws can reduce firearm-related violence by limiting access, implementing background checks, and regulating firearm sales. In an argumentative essay, explore the effectiveness of stricter gun control measures in curbing gun violence through access restrictions, background checks, and sales regulations.
• Climate Change Human activities are the primary drivers of climate change evidenced by rising temperatures, shrinking ice caps, and increasing carbon emissions. In this essay, argue that human actions are responsible for climate change, citing evidence like temperature increases, melting ice, and escalating carbon emissions.
• Education Reform Education reform requires revising curricula, enhancing teacher training, and implementing student-centered learning approaches to improve learning outcomes. Addressing education reform, argue that curricular updates, teacher preparation, and student-centered teaching methods are pivotal for enhancing academic achievements.
• Capital Punishment Capital punishment should be abolished due to the risk of wrongful execution, moral concerns, and lack of proven deterrence effect. In an argumentative context, advocate for the abolition of the death penalty by discussing the potential for wrongful executions, moral dilemmas, and the lack of conclusive evidence of deterrence.
• Online Privacy Stricter regulations, user education, and enhanced data encryption are necessary to safeguard online privacy in the digital age. Argue for improved online privacy by discussing the need for stringent regulations, educating users about digital risks, and implementing robust data encryption.
• Animal Testing Animal testing should be replaced with alternative methods such as in vitro testing, computer simulations, and human cell studies to ensure ethical research. Take a stance against animal testing by arguing for the adoption of humane alternatives, including in vitro experiments, computer models, and human cell research.
• School Uniforms School uniforms foster a sense of belonging, minimize socio-economic disparities, and create a focused learning environment conducive to academic success. Present a case for school uniforms, highlighting their benefits in promoting inclusivity, reducing inequality, and cultivating a focused educational environment.
• Social Media Addiction Social media addiction requires intervention through awareness campaigns, setting digital boundaries, and promoting face-to-face interactions. Argue against the harmful effects of social media addiction, advocating for strategies like awareness initiatives, self-regulation, and prioritizing offline connections.
• Genetic Engineering Genetic engineering raises ethical concerns due to potential ecological disruption, unforeseen health risks, and the alteration of natural genetic diversity. Present an argument against genetic engineering by discussing ecological impacts, health uncertainties, and potential consequences for biodiversity.
• Universal Healthcare The adoption of universal healthcare improves public health outcomes by providing equitable access to medical services, reducing financial burdens, and promoting preventive care. Advocate for universal healthcare by discussing its potential to ensure healthcare equity, alleviate financial strain, and prioritize preventative measures.

3 Point Thesis Statement Examples for an Essay

• Happiness Happiness is attainable through positive relationships, meaningful pursuits, and a balanced approach to life’s challenges. In this essay, explore the avenues to achieve happiness through fostering connections, pursuing fulfilling goals, and embracing life’s complexities.
• Travel Travel enriches personal growth by broadening cultural perspectives, encouraging adaptability, and promoting experiential learning. Discuss the benefits of travel, emphasizing its role in expanding cultural horizons, developing adaptability, and facilitating hands-on education.
• Leadership Effective leadership encompasses clear communication, empathetic understanding, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. Delve into the qualities of a successful leader, focusing on communication skills, empathy, and the capacity to inspire and lead by example.
• Dreams Pursuing dreams requires determination, overcoming obstacles, and embracing failure as a stepping stone towards eventual success. Explore the journey toward realizing dreams, emphasizing the importance of resilience, facing challenges, and learning from setbacks.
• Time Management Efficient time management involves setting priorities, utilizing effective strategies, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Discuss the significance of managing time wisely, covering aspects like prioritization, productivity techniques, and maintaining personal well-being.
• Healthy Eating Maintaining a healthy diet necessitates balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep to promote overall well-being and academic success. In this essay, advocate for healthy eating habits by discussing the importance of nutritional balance, exercise, and sufficient sleep in supporting academic performance.
• Creativity Nurturing creativity involves embracing curiosity, seeking inspiration from various sources, and welcoming experimentation without fear of failure. Examine the facets of creativity, emphasizing curiosity-driven exploration, diverse sources of inspiration, and the courage to experiment.
• Friendship Meaningful friendships are built on trust, mutual support, and shared experiences, contributing to emotional fulfillment and personal growth. Explore the essence of friendship, discussing the core elements of trust, mutual assistance, and the impact of shared moments.
• Resilience Resilience emerges from facing adversity, developing coping strategies, and maintaining a positive outlook during challenging times. Highlight the concept of resilience, showcasing how it evolves through confronting hardships, developing coping mechanisms, and nurturing optimism.
• Nature Conservation Nature conservation demands sustainable practices, community involvement, and legislative support to preserve biodiversity and ecological balance. Discuss the importance of protecting the environment, emphasizing sustainable behaviors, community engagement, and legal measures to maintain biodiversity.

3 Point Thesis Statement Examples in Middle School

• Bullying Bullying prevention requires awareness campaigns, fostering empathy, and promoting open communication to create a safe and inclusive school environment. In middle school, discuss strategies to combat bullying by raising awareness, cultivating empathy, and encouraging open dialogue among students.
• Internet Safety Internet safety education involves responsible online behavior, recognizing digital risks, and safeguarding personal information to ensure a secure online experience. Address the importance of internet safety for middle school students, focusing on responsible online conduct, cyber awareness, and protecting personal data.
• Healthy Lifestyle Adopting a healthy lifestyle entails balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep to promote overall well-being and academic success. Discuss the significance of healthy habits for middle schoolers, emphasizing the role of balanced nutrition, exercise, and sufficient sleep in supporting academic performance.
• Peer Pressure Navigating peer pressure requires assertiveness, making informed choices, and seeking positive influences to maintain personal values and self-confidence. Address the challenges of peer pressure among middle school students, advocating for strategies like assertiveness training, informed decision-making, and seeking supportive friendships.
• Environmental Awareness Fostering environmental awareness involves learning about ecosystems, practicing eco-friendly habits, and participating in conservation efforts to protect the planet. Explore the importance of environmental education for middle schoolers, encouraging them to learn about ecosystems, adopt eco-conscious behaviors, and engage in conservation projects.
• Friendship Dynamics Nurturing positive friendships involves empathy, effective communication, and resolving conflicts to foster healthy and supportive relationships. Address the complexities of middle school friendships, emphasizing empathy, communication skills, and conflict resolution techniques for building strong connections.
• Time Management Developing time management skills encompasses setting priorities, using organizational tools, and establishing routines to balance academics and leisure activities. Discuss the relevance of time management for middle school students, introducing strategies like prioritization, organization, and establishing effective routines.
• Goal Setting Goal setting involves defining aspirations, breaking tasks into manageable steps, and persevering in the face of challenges to achieve personal ambitions. Explore the concept of goal setting among middle schoolers, encouraging them to define aspirations, create actionable plans, and cultivate resilience.
• Cultural Diversity Embracing cultural diversity involves understanding different perspectives, promoting inclusion, and celebrating various traditions to create a harmonious school community. Address cultural diversity in middle school, advocating for cultural understanding, inclusivity, and the importance of respecting diverse backgrounds.
• Cyberbullying Combating cyberbullying requires reporting incidents, practicing digital citizenship, and creating a culture of kindness to ensure online safety and well-being. Discuss the implications of cyberbullying for middle schoolers, emphasizing the importance of reporting, practicing responsible online behavior, and fostering a positive digital environment.

3 Point Thesis Statement Examples in Literature

• The Great Gatsby “The Great Gatsby” portrays the disillusionment of the American Dream through characters’ pursuit of wealth, the facade of social status, and the inability to attain lasting happiness. Discuss the themes of disillusionment and the American Dream in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, exploring how characters’ materialistic pursuits and social aspirations lead to unfulfilled desires.
• To Kill a Mockingbird “To Kill a Mockingbird” highlights social injustice through the lens of racism, the loss of innocence, and the importance of empathy in understanding others’ perspectives. Analyze Harper Lee’s novel, focusing on its exploration of racial inequality, the loss of innocence, and the value of empathy in addressing societal prejudices.
• Romeo and Juliet “Romeo and Juliet” examines the consequences of impulsivity, the impact of familial feuds, and the significance of love transcending societal boundaries. Explore William Shakespeare’s tragedy, discussing the themes of impulsive actions, familial conflicts, and the enduring power of love that defies societal constraints.
• 1984 “1984” critiques totalitarianism by depicting government surveillance, manipulation of language, and the suppression of individuality as dystopian manifestations of power. Analyze George Orwell’s dystopian novel, focusing on its portrayal of authoritarian control, the manipulation of information, and the degradation of personal freedoms.
• Pride and Prejudice “Pride and Prejudice” explores societal norms, gender expectations, and the complexities of love and self-discovery as characters navigate social hierarchies. Examine Jane Austen’s classic work, delving into its examination of social class, gender roles, and the transformative power of genuine affection in overcoming biases.
• The Catcher in the Rye “The Catcher in the Rye” presents the alienation of youth, the search for authenticity, and the complexities of growing up as Holden Caulfield navigates the challenges of adolescence. Discuss J.D. Salinger’s novel, focusing on the protagonist’s feelings of alienation, his quest for authenticity, and the portrayal of teenage angst and identity formation.
• The Lord of the Rings “The Lord of the Rings” explores the battle between good and evil, the hero’s journey, and the significance of fellowship as characters embark on an epic quest to save Middle-earth. Analyze J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy, discussing its themes of morality, heroism, and the power of camaraderie as characters confront the forces of darkness.
• Frankenstein “Frankenstein” delves into the consequences of unchecked ambition, the ethical implications of scientific creation, and the alienation of the outsider as Victor Frankenstein grapples with his monstrous creation. Examine Mary Shelley’s novel, addressing themes of ambition, ethics, and societal rejection as Victor Frankenstein’s scientific endeavors lead to unintended consequences.
• The Scarlet Letter “The Scarlet Letter” explores the consequences of societal judgment, the complexities of sin and redemption, and the resilience of the human spirit as Hester Prynne navigates the aftermath of her actions. Analyze Nathaniel Hawthorne’s work, discussing its examination of guilt, societal norms, and the capacity for personal growth in the face of adversity.
• Brave New World “Brave New World” critiques a dystopian future by depicting a society driven by consumerism, the suppression of individuality, and the manipulation of happiness as the ultimate goal. Explore Aldous Huxley’s dystopian vision, discussing its commentary on technological control, the pursuit of pleasure, and the loss of authentic human experience.

3 Point Thesis Statement Examples for Graphic Organizers

• Solar System Understanding the solar system involves recognizing the sun as the center, identifying planets and their characteristics, and comprehending the roles of asteroids, comets, and moons. Discuss the solar system using a graphic organizer, highlighting its key components including the sun, planets, asteroids, comets, and moons, along with their distinctive features.
• Ecosystems Exploring ecosystems involves categorizing biomes, understanding food chains and webs, and recognizing the importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecological balance. Utilize a graphic organizer to depict various biomes within ecosystems, illustrate food chains and webs, and emphasize the significance of biodiversity for ecological stability.
• Literary Elements Analyzing literature entails identifying plot elements, character traits, and thematic concepts to gain a comprehensive understanding of narrative structure and meaning. Create a graphic organizer to analyze literary works, mapping out key elements such as plot, characters, and themes to enhance comprehension of narrative elements.
• Historical Events Studying historical events requires sequencing chronological occurrences, contextualizing historical contexts, and identifying influential figures and their contributions. Construct a graphic organizer to explore historical events, arranging them chronologically, providing contextual information, and highlighting notable individuals and their impacts.
• Plant Life Cycle Exploring the plant life cycle involves identifying stages from seed germination to reproduction, understanding the roles of roots, stems, leaves, and flowers, and grasping the significance of pollination. Employ a graphic organizer to depict the plant life cycle, depicting stages from seed germination to pollination and reproduction, while illustrating the roles of different plant parts.
• Literary Genres Understanding literary genres requires categorizing fiction, non-fiction, poetry, drama, and identifying distinguishing characteristics that define each genre’s narrative style. Use a graphic organizer to differentiate literary genres, classifying fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama while highlighting the unique features that define each genre.
• Elements of a Story Analyzing the elements of a story involves identifying the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution to gain insight into narrative structure and development. Create a graphic organizer to explore the elements of a story, mapping out the key stages from exposition to resolution, enhancing comprehension of narrative progression.
• Food Groups Understanding dietary balance entails categorizing food groups such as fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy, and recognizing their nutritional contributions to overall health. Utilize a graphic organizer to depict food groups, categorizing fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy while emphasizing their roles in providing essential nutrients.
• Biographical Information Exploring biographies involves organizing key details like birth, achievements, contributions, and impact to gain insights into notable individuals’ lives and legacies. Construct a graphic organizer to analyze biographical information, arranging details such as birth, accomplishments, significant contributions, and lasting impact on society.
• Cause and Effect Relationships Understanding cause and effect relationships entails identifying triggers and outcomes, recognizing the interconnectedness of events, and comprehending the implications of actions. Design a graphic organizer to explore cause and effect relationships, mapping out causal factors and corresponding effects to illustrate the interconnected nature of events.

Free 3 Point Thesis Statement Worksheets Download

Download our free 3 Point Thesis Statement Worksheets to enhance your writing skills. These comprehensive resources provide structured guidance on crafting impactful thesis statements for various topics. Through step-by-step exercises, you’ll learn to formulate clear arguments with three supporting points, fostering effective communication and analytical thinking. Elevate your essay writing by mastering the art of concise and persuasive thesis statements with our downloadable worksheets.

3 Point Thesis Statement Worksheet

Size: 360 KB

3 Point Thesis Statement Worksheet Sample

Size: 160 KB

Three Point Thesis Statement Worksheet Download

Size: 170 KB

How to Write a 3 Point Thesis Statement? – Step by Step Guide

Crafting a compelling 3 Point Thesis Statement involves careful planning and a structured approach. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a clear and impactful thesis that effectively outlines your main argument and supporting points:

• Choose Your Topic: Select a specific topic that you want to address in your essay. Ensure it’s focused enough to be thoroughly explored within the scope of your work.
• Identify Your Main Argument: Determine the central point or argument you want to make about the chosen topic. This main idea will serve as the foundation for your thesis statement.
• Brainstorm Supporting Points: Identify three key points that support and reinforce your main argument. These points will guide your essay’s structure and content.
• Craft Your Thesis Statement: Combine your main argument and the three supporting points into a single, concise sentence. Ensure it clearly conveys the overall message of your essay.
• Order and Coherence: Arrange your supporting points logically. Typically, present them in the order you’ll address them in your essay, from strongest to weakest or chronologically.
• Avoid Ambiguity: Make sure your thesis statement is specific and unambiguous. Avoid vague language that might confuse or mislead readers.
• Precision and Clarity: Use clear and precise language in your thesis statement. Each word should contribute to the overall clarity and accuracy of your message.
• Revise for Consistency: Check that your thesis statement aligns with the content of your essay. Any deviations should be addressed to maintain coherence.
• Seek Feedback: Share your thesis statement with peers or mentors for feedback. Their insights can help you refine and strengthen your argument.
• Refine and Edit: Revise your thesis statement based on the feedback you receive. Edit for grammar, style, and conciseness.
• Finalize Your Thesis Statement: Once satisfied, incorporate your refined thesis statement into your essay’s introduction, ensuring it provides a roadmap for readers.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a powerful 3 Point Thesis Statement that effectively communicates your main argument and supporting points, setting the tone for a well-structured and persuasive essay.

Tips for Writing a 3 Point Thesis Statment

• Clarity is Key: Keep your thesis statement clear and straightforward, avoiding vague or convoluted language.
• Singular Focus: Center your thesis around a single, focused argument to maintain a clear message.
• Strong Supporting Points: Select three robust supporting points that directly bolster your main argument.
• Parallel Structure: Use consistent grammatical structure for your supporting points to enhance organization.
• Logical Order: Arrange supporting points logically, from strongest to weakest or in a coherent sequence.
• Specific Examples: Back up your points with concrete evidence, avoiding general statements.
• Avoid First-Person: Keep your thesis objective by refraining from using first-person pronouns.
• Highlight Importance: Explain the significance or broader implications of your main argument and points.
• Feedback Matters: Seek input from others to refine and strengthen your thesis statement.
• Connect and Transition: Ensure your thesis smoothly leads into the content of your essay’s body.

Mastering the art of crafting impactful 3 Point Thesis Statements elevates your writing prowess. With a clear main argument and well-chosen supporting points, your essays gain depth and structure. Following expert tips ensures clarity, conciseness, and logical organization. This skill empowers you to communicate effectively, fostering a deeper connection with readers and enhancing the overall impact of your work.

AI Generator

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

This resource provides tips for creating a thesis statement and examples of different types of thesis statements.

Tips for Writing Your Thesis Statement

1. Determine what kind of paper you are writing:

• An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
• An expository (explanatory) paper explains something to the audience.
• An argumentative paper makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, a cause-and-effect statement, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that the claim is true based on the evidence provided.

If you are writing a text that does not fall under these three categories (e.g., a narrative), a thesis statement somewhere in the first paragraph could still be helpful to your reader.

2. Your thesis statement should be specific—it should cover only what you will discuss in your paper and should be supported with specific evidence.

3. The thesis statement usually appears at the end of the first paragraph of a paper.

4. Your topic may change as you write, so you may need to revise your thesis statement to reflect exactly what you have discussed in the paper.

Thesis Statement Examples

Example of an analytical thesis statement:

The paper that follows should:

• Explain the analysis of the college admission process
• Explain the challenge facing admissions counselors

Example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement:

• Explain how students spend their time studying, attending class, and socializing with peers

Example of an argumentative thesis statement:

• Present an argument and give evidence to support the claim that students should pursue community projects before entering college

• school Campus Bookshelves
• menu_book Bookshelves
• perm_media Learning Objects
• login Login
• how_to_reg Request Instructor Account
• hub Instructor Commons
• Download Page (PDF)
• Download Full Book (PDF)
• Periodic Table
• Physics Constants
• Scientific Calculator
• Reference & Cite
• Tools expand_more
• Readability

selected template will load here

This action is not available.

3.3: Thesis Statements

• Last updated
• Save as PDF
• Page ID 58260
• Lumen Learning

Learning Objectives

• Identify strong thesis statements

The thesis statment is the key to most academic writing. The purpose of academic writing is to offer your own insights, analyses, and ideas—to show not only that you understand the concepts you’re studying, but also that you have thought about those concepts in your own way and agreed or disagreed, or developed your own unique ideas as a result of your analysis. The thesis statement is the one sentence that encapsulates the result of your thinking, as it offers your main insight or argument in condensed form.

We often use the word “argument” in English courses, but we do not mean it in the traditional sense of a verbal fight with someone else. Instead, you “argue” by taking a position on an issue and supporting it with evidence. Because you’ve taken a position about your topic, someone else may be in a position to disagree (or argue) with the stance you have taken. Think about how a lawyer presents an argument or states their case in a courtroom—similarly, you want to build a case around the main idea of your essay. For example, in 1848, when Elizabeth Cady Stanton drafted “The Declaration of Sentiments,” she was thinking about how to convince New York State policymakers to change the laws to allow women to vote. Stanton was making an argument .

Some consider all writing a form of argument—or at least of persuasion. After all, even if you’re writing a letter or an informative essay, you’re implicitly trying to persuade your audience to care about what you’re saying. Your thesis statement represents the main idea—or point—about a topic or issue that you make in an argument. For example, let’s say that your topic is social media. A thesis statement about social media could look like one of the following sentences:

• Social media are hurting the communication skills of young Americans.
• Social media are useful tools for social movements.

A basic thesis sentence has two main parts:

• Topic: What you’re writing about
• Angle: What your main idea is about that topic

Example Thesis Statements

Thesis: A regular exercise regime leads to multiple benefits, both physical and emotional.

Topic: Regular exercise regime

Angle: Leads to multiple benefits

Thesis: Adult college students have different experiences than typical, younger college students.

Topic: Adult college students

Angle: Have different experiences

Thesis: The economics of television have made the viewing experience challenging for many viewers because shows are not offered regularly, similar programming occurs at the same time, and commercials are rampant.

Topic: Television viewing

Angle: Challenging because shows shifted, similar programming, and commercials

Identifying the Thesis Statement

You’ll remember that the first step of the reading process, previewing , allows you to get a big-picture view of the document you’re reading. This way, you can begin to understand the structure of the overall text. The most important step in getting a good understanding of an essay or book is to find the thesis statement.

A thesis consists of a specific topic and an angle on the topic. All of the other ideas in the text support and develop the thesis. The thesis statement is often found in the introduction, sometimes after an initial “hook” or interesting story; sometimes, however, the thesis is not explicitly stated until the end of an essay, and sometimes it is not stated at all. In those instances, there is an implied thesis statement, in which you can generally extract the thesis statement by looking for a few key sentences and ideas.

Most readers expect to see the point of your argument (the thesis statement) within the first few paragraphs. This does not mean that it has to be placed there every time. Some writers place it at the very end, slowly building up to it throughout their work, to explain a point after the fact. Others don’t bother with one at all but feel that their thesis is “implied” anyway. Beginning writers, however, should avoid the implied thesis unless certain of the audience. Almost every professor will expect to see a clearly discernible thesis sentence in the introduction.

Thesis statements vary based on the rhetorical strategy of the essay, but thesis statements typically share the following characteristics:

• Presents the main idea
• Most often is one sentence
• Tells the reader what to expect
• Is a summary of the essay topic
• Usually worded to have an argumentative edge
• Written in the third person

The following “How to Identify a Thesis Statement” video offers advice for locating a text’s thesis statement. It asks you to write one or two sentences that summarize the text. When you write that summary, without looking at the text itself, you’ve most likely paraphrased the thesis statement.

You can view the transcript for “How to Identify the Thesis Statement” here (download).

Writing a Thesis Statement

Remember your thesis should answer two simple questions: What issue are you writing about, and what is your position, or angle, on it?

A thesis statement is a single sentence (or sometimes two) that provides the answers to these questions clearly and concisely. Ask yourself, “What is my paper about, exactly?” to help you develop a precise and directed thesis, not only for your reader, but for you as well.

A good thesis statement will:

• Consist of just one idea
• Make your position clear
• Be specific
• Have evidence to support it
• Be interesting
• Be written clearly

A good basic structure for a thesis statement is “they say, I say.” What is the prevailing view, and how does your position differ from it? However, avoid limiting the scope of your writing with an either/or thesis under the assumption that your view must be strictly contrary to their view.

Following are some typical thesis statements:

• Although many readers believe Romeo and Juliet to be a tale about the ill fate of two star-crossed lovers, it can also be read as an allegory concerning a playwright and his audience.
• The “War on Drugs” has not only failed to reduce the frequency of drug-related crimes in America but actually enhanced the popular image of dope peddlers by romanticizing them as desperate rebels fighting for a cause.
• The bulk of modern copyright law was conceived in the age of commercial printing, long before the Internet made it so easy for the public to compose and distribute its own texts. Therefore, these laws should be reviewed and revised to better accommodate modern readers and writers.
• The usual moral justification for capital punishment is that it deters crime by frightening would-be criminals. However, the statistics tell a different story.
• If students really want to improve their writing, they must read often, practice writing, and receive quality feedback from their peers.
• Plato’s dialectical method has much to offer those engaged in online writing, which is far more conversational in nature than print.

Thesis Problems to Avoid

Although you have creative control over your thesis sentence, you still should try to avoid the following problems, not for stylistic reasons, but because they indicate a problem in the thinking that underlies the thesis sentence.

• For example, look at the thesis: Hospice workers need support. This is a thesis sentence; it has a topic (hospice workers) and an angle (need support). But the angle is very broad. When the angle in a thesis sentence is too broad, the writer may not have carefully thought through the specific support for the rest of the writing. A thesis angle that’s too broad makes it easy to fall into the trap of offering information that deviates from that angle.
• Consider this thesis: Hospice workers have a 55% turnover rate compared to the general health care population’s 25% turnover rate. This sentence really isn’t a thesis sentence at all, because there’s no angle idea to support. A narrow statistic, or a narrow statement of fact, doesn’t offer the writer’s own ideas or analysis about a topic. A clearer example of a thesis statement with an angle of development would be the following:

Practice identifying strong thesis statements in the following interactive.

https://lumenlearning.h5p.com/content/1290916673521810808/embed

argument : in writing, the argument is the main stance, claim, or position that is supported with evidence

explicit thesis : a clear and direct statement of the writer’s claim

thesis statement : a statement of the topic of the piece of writing and the angle the writer has on that topic

Contributors and Attributions

• Modification, adaptation, and original content. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution
• Annotating an Essay or Book. Provided by : Excelsior OWL. Located at : https://owl.excelsior.edu/orc/what-to-do-while-reading/annotating/annotating-an-essay-or-book/ . License : CC BY: Attribution
• Checklist for a Thesis Statement. Provided by : Excelsior OWL. Located at : https://owl.excelsior.edu/esl-wow/getting-ready-to-write/developing-a-thesis/esl-checklist-for-a-thesis-statement/ . License : CC BY: Attribution
• Judging Thesis Statements. Provided by : Excelsior OWL. Located at : https://owl.excelsior.edu/esl-wow/getting-ready-to-write/developing-a-thesis/esl-judging-thesis-statements/ . License : CC BY: Attribution
• Research Writing and Argument. Authored by : Pavel Zemliansky. Located at : learn.saylor.org/mod/page/view.php?id=7163. Project : Methods of Discovery: A Guide to Research Writing. License : CC BY: Attribution
• Parts of a Thesis Sentence and Common Problems. Provided by : Excelsior OWL. Located at : https://owl.excelsior.edu/writing-process/thesis-sentence/thesis-sentence-angles/ . License : CC BY: Attribution
• Argument in College Writing. Provided by : Excelsior OWL. Located at : https://owl.excelsior.edu/argument-and-critical-thinking/argument-in-college-writing/ . License : CC BY: Attribution
• How to Identify the Thesis Statement. Authored by : Martha Ann Kennedy. Located at : https://youtu.be/di1cQgc1akg . License : All Rights Reserved . License Terms : Standard YouTube License

• Walden University
• Faculty Portal

Writing a Paper: Thesis Statements

Basics of thesis statements.

The thesis statement is the brief articulation of your paper's central argument and purpose. You might hear it referred to as simply a "thesis." Every scholarly paper should have a thesis statement, and strong thesis statements are concise, specific, and arguable. Concise means the thesis is short: perhaps one or two sentences for a shorter paper. Specific means the thesis deals with a narrow and focused topic, appropriate to the paper's length. Arguable means that a scholar in your field could disagree (or perhaps already has!).

Strong thesis statements address specific intellectual questions, have clear positions, and use a structure that reflects the overall structure of the paper. Read on to learn more about constructing a strong thesis statement.

Being Specific

This thesis statement has no specific argument:

Needs Improvement: In this essay, I will examine two scholarly articles to find similarities and differences.

This statement is concise, but it is neither specific nor arguable—a reader might wonder, "Which scholarly articles? What is the topic of this paper? What field is the author writing in?" Additionally, the purpose of the paper—to "examine…to find similarities and differences" is not of a scholarly level. Identifying similarities and differences is a good first step, but strong academic argument goes further, analyzing what those similarities and differences might mean or imply.

Better: In this essay, I will argue that Bowler's (2003) autocratic management style, when coupled with Smith's (2007) theory of social cognition, can reduce the expenses associated with employee turnover.

The new revision here is still concise, as well as specific and arguable.  We can see that it is specific because the writer is mentioning (a) concrete ideas and (b) exact authors.  We can also gather the field (business) and the topic (management and employee turnover). The statement is arguable because the student goes beyond merely comparing; he or she draws conclusions from that comparison ("can reduce the expenses associated with employee turnover").

Making a Unique Argument

This thesis draft repeats the language of the writing prompt without making a unique argument:

Needs Improvement: The purpose of this essay is to monitor, assess, and evaluate an educational program for its strengths and weaknesses. Then, I will provide suggestions for improvement.

You can see here that the student has simply stated the paper's assignment, without articulating specifically how he or she will address it. The student can correct this error simply by phrasing the thesis statement as a specific answer to the assignment prompt.

Better: Through a series of student interviews, I found that Kennedy High School's antibullying program was ineffective. In order to address issues of conflict between students, I argue that Kennedy High School should embrace policies outlined by the California Department of Education (2010).

Words like "ineffective" and "argue" show here that the student has clearly thought through the assignment and analyzed the material; he or she is putting forth a specific and debatable position. The concrete information ("student interviews," "antibullying") further prepares the reader for the body of the paper and demonstrates how the student has addressed the assignment prompt without just restating that language.

Creating a Debate

This thesis statement includes only obvious fact or plot summary instead of argument:

Needs Improvement: Leadership is an important quality in nurse educators.

A good strategy to determine if your thesis statement is too broad (and therefore, not arguable) is to ask yourself, "Would a scholar in my field disagree with this point?" Here, we can see easily that no scholar is likely to argue that leadership is an unimportant quality in nurse educators.  The student needs to come up with a more arguable claim, and probably a narrower one; remember that a short paper needs a more focused topic than a dissertation.

Better: Roderick's (2009) theory of participatory leadership  is particularly appropriate to nurse educators working within the emergency medicine field, where students benefit most from collegial and kinesthetic learning.

Here, the student has identified a particular type of leadership ("participatory leadership"), narrowing the topic, and has made an arguable claim (this type of leadership is "appropriate" to a specific type of nurse educator). Conceivably, a scholar in the nursing field might disagree with this approach. The student's paper can now proceed, providing specific pieces of evidence to support the arguable central claim.

Choosing the Right Words

This thesis statement uses large or scholarly-sounding words that have no real substance:

Needs Improvement: Scholars should work to seize metacognitive outcomes by harnessing discipline-based networks to empower collaborative infrastructures.

There are many words in this sentence that may be buzzwords in the student's field or key terms taken from other texts, but together they do not communicate a clear, specific meaning. Sometimes students think scholarly writing means constructing complex sentences using special language, but actually it's usually a stronger choice to write clear, simple sentences. When in doubt, remember that your ideas should be complex, not your sentence structure.

Better: Ecologists should work to educate the U.S. public on conservation methods by making use of local and national green organizations to create a widespread communication plan.

Notice in the revision that the field is now clear (ecology), and the language has been made much more field-specific ("conservation methods," "green organizations"), so the reader is able to see concretely the ideas the student is communicating.

Leaving Room for Discussion

This thesis statement is not capable of development or advancement in the paper:

Needs Improvement: There are always alternatives to illegal drug use.

This sample thesis statement makes a claim, but it is not a claim that will sustain extended discussion. This claim is the type of claim that might be appropriate for the conclusion of a paper, but in the beginning of the paper, the student is left with nowhere to go. What further points can be made? If there are "always alternatives" to the problem the student is identifying, then why bother developing a paper around that claim? Ideally, a thesis statement should be complex enough to explore over the length of the entire paper.

Better: The most effective treatment plan for methamphetamine addiction may be a combination of pharmacological and cognitive therapy, as argued by Baker (2008), Smith (2009), and Xavier (2011).

In the revised thesis, you can see the student make a specific, debatable claim that has the potential to generate several pages' worth of discussion. When drafting a thesis statement, think about the questions your thesis statement will generate: What follow-up inquiries might a reader have? In the first example, there are almost no additional questions implied, but the revised example allows for a good deal more exploration.

Thesis Mad Libs

If you are having trouble getting started, try using the models below to generate a rough model of a thesis statement! These models are intended for drafting purposes only and should not appear in your final work.

• In this essay, I argue ____, using ______ to assert _____.
• While scholars have often argued ______, I argue______, because_______.
• Through an analysis of ______, I argue ______, which is important because_______.

Words to Avoid and to Embrace

When drafting your thesis statement, avoid words like explore, investigate, learn, compile, summarize , and explain to describe the main purpose of your paper. These words imply a paper that summarizes or "reports," rather than synthesizing and analyzing.

Instead of the terms above, try words like argue, critique, question , and interrogate . These more analytical words may help you begin strongly, by articulating a specific, critical, scholarly position.

Read Kayla's blog post for tips on taking a stand in a well-crafted thesis statement.

Related Resources

Didn't find what you need? Email us at [email protected] .

• Previous Page: Introductions
• Next Page: Conclusions
• Office of Student Disability Services

Walden Resources

Departments.

• Academic Residencies
• Academic Skills
• Career Planning and Development
• Customer Care Team
• Field Experience
• Military Services
• Student Success Advising
• Writing Skills

Centers and Offices

• Center for Social Change
• Office of Academic Support and Instructional Services
• Office of Degree Acceleration
• Office of Research and Doctoral Services
• Office of Student Affairs

Student Resources

• Doctoral Writing Assessment
• Form & Style Review
• Quick Answers
• ScholarWorks
• SKIL Courses and Workshops
• Walden Bookstore
• Walden Catalog & Student Handbook
• Student Safety/Title IX
• Legal & Consumer Information
• Website Terms and Conditions
• Cookie Policy
• Accessibility
• Accreditation
• State Authorization
• Net Price Calculator
• Contact Walden

Walden University is a member of Adtalem Global Education, Inc. www.adtalem.com Walden University is certified to operate by SCHEV © 2024 Walden University LLC. All rights reserved.

Research Paper: A step-by-step guide: 3. Thesis Statement & Outline

• 1. Getting Started
• 2. Topic Ideas
• 3. Thesis Statement & Outline
• 4. Appropriate Sources
• 5. Search Techniques
• 6. Taking Notes & Documenting Sources
• 7. Evaluating Sources
• 8. Citations & Plagiarism
• 9. Writing Your Research Paper

About Thesis Statements

Qualities of a thesis statement.

Thesis statements:

• state the subject matter and main ideas of a paper.
• appear in the first paragraph and announces what you will discuss in your paper.
• define the scope and focus of your essay, and tells your reader what to expect.  
• are not a simple factual statement.  It is an assertion that states your claims and that you can prove with evidence.
• should be the product of research and your own critical thinking.
• can be very helpful in constructing an outline for your essay; for each point you make, ask yourself whether it is relevant to the thesis.

Steps you can use to create a thesis statement

1. Start out with the main topic and focus of your essay.

youth gangs + prevention and intervention programs

2. Make a claim or argument in one sentence.  It can be helpful to start with a question which you then turn into an argument

Can prevention and intervention programs stop youth gang activities?  How?  ►►►  "Prevention and intervention programs can stop youth gang activities by giving teens something else to do."

3. Revise the sentence by using specific terms.

"Early prevention programs in schools are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement by giving teens good activities that offer a path to success."

4. Further revise the sentence to cover the scope of your essay and make a strong statement.

"Among various prevention and intervention efforts that have been made to deal with the rapid growth of youth gangs, early school-based prevention programs are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement, which they do by giving teens meaningful activities that offer pathways to achievement and success."

5. Keep your thesis statement flexible and revise it as needed. In the process of researching and writing, you may find new information or refine your understanding of the topic.

You can view this short video for more tips on how to write a clear thesis statement.

An outline is the skeleton of your essay, in which you list the arguments and subtopics in a logical order. A good outline is an important element in writing a good paper. An outline helps to target your research areas, keep you within the scope without going off-track, and it can also help to keep your argument in good order when writing the essay.  Once your outline is in good shape, it is much easier to write your paper; you've already done most of the thinking, so you just need to fill in the outline with a paragraph for each point.

To write an outline: The most common way to write an outline is the list format.  List all the major topics and subtopics with the key points that support them. Put similar topics and points together and arrange them in a logical order.    Include an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. 

A list outline should arrange the main points or arguments in a hierarchical structure indicated by Roman numerals for main ideas (I, II, III...), capital letters for subtopics (A, B, C...), Arabic numerals for details (1,2,3...), and lower-case letters for fine details if needed (a,b,c...). This helps keep things organized.  

Here is a shortened example of an outline:

Introduction: background and thesis statement

I. First topic

1. Supporting evidence 2. Supporting evidence

II. Second Topic

III. Third Topic

I. Summarize the main points of your paper II. Restate your thesis in different words III. Make a strong final statement

You can see examples of a few different kinds of outlines and get more help at the Purdue OWL .

• << Previous: 2. Topic Ideas
• Next: 4. Appropriate Sources >>
• Last Updated: Apr 18, 2023 12:12 PM
• URL: https://butte.libguides.com/ResearchPaper

25 Thesis Statement Examples

A thesis statement is needed in an essay or dissertation . There are multiple types of thesis statements – but generally we can divide them into expository and argumentative. An expository statement is a statement of fact (common in expository essays and process essays) while an argumentative statement is a statement of opinion (common in argumentative essays and dissertations). Below are examples of each.

Strong Thesis Statement Examples

1. School Uniforms

“Mandatory school uniforms should be implemented in educational institutions as they promote a sense of equality, reduce distractions, and foster a focused and professional learning environment.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay or Debate

Read More: School Uniforms Pros and Cons

2. Nature vs Nurture

“This essay will explore how both genetic inheritance and environmental factors equally contribute to shaping human behavior and personality.”

Best For: Compare and Contrast Essay

Read More: Nature vs Nurture Debate

3. American Dream

“The American Dream, a symbol of opportunity and success, is increasingly elusive in today’s socio-economic landscape, revealing deeper inequalities in society.”

Best For: Persuasive Essay

Read More: What is the American Dream?

4. Social Media

“Social media has revolutionized communication and societal interactions, but it also presents significant challenges related to privacy, mental health, and misinformation.”

Best For: Expository Essay

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Social Media

5. Globalization

“Globalization has created a world more interconnected than ever before, yet it also amplifies economic disparities and cultural homogenization.”

Read More: Globalization Pros and Cons

6. Urbanization

“Urbanization drives economic growth and social development, but it also poses unique challenges in sustainability and quality of life.”

Read More: Learn about Urbanization

7. Immigration

“Immigration enriches receiving countries culturally and economically, outweighing any perceived social or economic burdens.”

Read More: Immigration Pros and Cons

8. Cultural Identity

“In a globalized world, maintaining distinct cultural identities is crucial for preserving cultural diversity and fostering global understanding, despite the challenges of assimilation and homogenization.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay

Read More: Learn about Cultural Identity

9. Technology

“Medical technologies in care institutions in Toronto has increased subjcetive outcomes for patients with chronic pain.”

Best For: Research Paper

10. Capitalism vs Socialism

“The debate between capitalism and socialism centers on balancing economic freedom and inequality, each presenting distinct approaches to resource distribution and social welfare.”

11. Cultural Heritage

“The preservation of cultural heritage is essential, not only for cultural identity but also for educating future generations, outweighing the arguments for modernization and commercialization.”

12. Pseudoscience

“Pseudoscience, characterized by a lack of empirical support, continues to influence public perception and decision-making, often at the expense of scientific credibility.”

Read More: Examples of Pseudoscience

13. Free Will

“The concept of free will is largely an illusion, with human behavior and decisions predominantly determined by biological and environmental factors.”

Read More: Do we have Free Will?

14. Gender Roles

“Traditional gender roles are outdated and harmful, restricting individual freedoms and perpetuating gender inequalities in modern society.”

Read More: What are Traditional Gender Roles?

15. Work-Life Ballance

“The trend to online and distance work in the 2020s led to improved subjective feelings of work-life balance but simultaneously increased self-reported loneliness.”

Read More: Work-Life Balance Examples

16. Universal Healthcare

“Universal healthcare is a fundamental human right and the most effective system for ensuring health equity and societal well-being, outweighing concerns about government involvement and costs.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Universal Healthcare

17. Minimum Wage

“The implementation of a fair minimum wage is vital for reducing economic inequality, yet it is often contentious due to its potential impact on businesses and employment rates.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Raising the Minimum Wage

18. Homework

“The homework provided throughout this semester has enabled me to achieve greater self-reflection, identify gaps in my knowledge, and reinforce those gaps through spaced repetition.”

Best For: Reflective Essay

Read More: Reasons Homework Should be Banned

19. Charter Schools

“Charter schools offer alternatives to traditional public education, promising innovation and choice but also raising questions about accountability and educational equity.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Charter Schools

20. Effects of the Internet

“The Internet has drastically reshaped human communication, access to information, and societal dynamics, generally with a net positive effect on society.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of the Internet

21. Affirmative Action

“Affirmative action is essential for rectifying historical injustices and achieving true meritocracy in education and employment, contrary to claims of reverse discrimination.”

Best For: Essay

Read More: Affirmative Action Pros and Cons

22. Soft Skills

“Soft skills, such as communication and empathy, are increasingly recognized as essential for success in the modern workforce, and therefore should be a strong focus at school and university level.”

Read More: Soft Skills Examples

23. Moral Panic

“Moral panic, often fueled by media and cultural anxieties, can lead to exaggerated societal responses that sometimes overlook rational analysis and evidence.”

Read More: Moral Panic Examples

24. Freedom of the Press

“Freedom of the press is critical for democracy and informed citizenship, yet it faces challenges from censorship, media bias, and the proliferation of misinformation.”

Read More: Freedom of the Press Examples

25. Mass Media

“Mass media shapes public opinion and cultural norms, but its concentration of ownership and commercial interests raise concerns about bias and the quality of information.”

Best For: Critical Analysis

Read More: Mass Media Examples

Checklist: How to use your Thesis Statement

✅ Position: If your statement is for an argumentative or persuasive essay, or a dissertation, ensure it takes a clear stance on the topic. ✅ Specificity: It addresses a specific aspect of the topic, providing focus for the essay. ✅ Conciseness: Typically, a thesis statement is one to two sentences long. It should be concise, clear, and easily identifiable. ✅ Direction: The thesis statement guides the direction of the essay, providing a roadmap for the argument, narrative, or explanation. ✅ Evidence-based: While the thesis statement itself doesn’t include evidence, it sets up an argument that can be supported with evidence in the body of the essay. ✅ Placement: Generally, the thesis statement is placed at the end of the introduction of an essay.

Try These AI Prompts – Thesis Statement Generator!

One way to brainstorm thesis statements is to get AI to brainstorm some for you! Try this AI prompt:

💡 AI PROMPT FOR EXPOSITORY THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTUCTIONS]. I want you to create an expository thesis statement that doesn’t argue a position, but demonstrates depth of knowledge about the topic.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR ARGUMENTATIVE THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTRUCTIONS]. I want you to create an argumentative thesis statement that clearly takes a position on this issue.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR COMPARE AND CONTRAST THESIS STATEMENT I am writing a compare and contrast essay that compares [Concept 1] and [Concept2]. Give me 5 potential single-sentence thesis statements that remain objective.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 5 Top Tips for Succeeding at University
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 50 Durable Goods Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 100 Consumer Goods Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 30 Globalization Pros and Cons

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Annual Three-Minute Thesis Competition Provides Research Capsule Talks

Creating an elevator pitch from information gleaned through years of specialized research takes clear thinking, precise wording and a flair for presenting to an audience. Just ask the participants of this year’s Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. Ten graduate and doctoral students took part in the contest’s final round last month.  

3MT provides participants with the chance to share details about their research and creative work in a compelling way—within a three-minute time limit. It was first developed by the University of Queensland in Australia and is now held at colleges and universities around the world.   

“3MT forces students to come up with ways to describe their research succinctly to non-specialists in a way that is not just comprehensible, but is also interesting and engaging. That’s a skill set that will pay off on the job market, and even beyond, as far as interacting with the media and others who can help disseminate your work and findings more broadly,” says Glenn Wright, executive director of career and professional development for the Graduate School, who runs the competition.  

Nimisha Thakur

This year’s top winner is Nim isha Thakur , a Ph.D. student in anthropology, whose topic was “ River Song: Riverine Futures Amidst Climate Change on the Brahmaputra Floodplains .” Thakur, a graduate research associate at the South Asia Center in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs , won a 16-inch MacBook Pro M3 and a year membership in the Anthropological Association of America. Thakur also has the chance to represent Syracuse University in the regional 3MT competition hosted by the Northeastern Association of Graduate Schools.   

Qingyang Liu

Qingyang Liu , a Ph.D. student in human developm ent and family science, was named the “People’s Choice” winner by audience vote. Liu conducts research in the SELF Regulation Laboratory in  the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics . Her topic was “ Material Hardship’s Influence on Self-Regulation Across Childhood: Which Hardship Truly Matters ?” The prize was a set of Bose noise-cancelling headphones.   

Additional finalists were:   

• Caroline Barraco , master’s student in history, “Authenticity, Commodity and Empire in the Early Modern Spanish Relic Trade”  
• Yener Çağla Çimendereli , Ph.D. student in philosophy, “Nonnative Speaking and Linguistic Justice”  
• Nicholas Croce , Ph.D. student in social science, “America’s Forgotten Labor Colony Experiment”  
• Nardini Jhawar , Ph.D. student in clinical psychology, “Racial Reflections: Examining ADHD Help-Seeking Among Asian American College Students”  
• Matthew D. O’Leary , Ph.D. student in anthropology, “Entangled Frontiers: Capitalism and Artifacts of Power at Fort St. Frédéric”  
• Andrew Ridgeway , Ph.D. student in composition and cultural rhetoric, “Evil We Desire: Akrasia and Conspiracy Rhetoric”  
• Paul Sagoe , Ph.D. student in biomedical engineering, “From Joint Pain to Joy Gain: Delivering Drugs for Osteoarthritis Cure”’  
• Julia Zeh , Ph.D. student in biology, “From Baby Babbles to Masterful Melodies: Investigating Vocal Development in Humpback Whales”  

Judges were Sarah Hamersma, associate professor and director of doctoral studies in public administration and international affairs, and Chung-Chin Eugene Liu, assistant professor of economics, both of the Maxwell School; and Corey Williams, a Syracuse City School District employee and a Common Councilor for Syracuse’s Third District.

Diane Stirling

• Giving for a Common Good: Fraternities and Sororities Compete for the Inaugural Hendricks Cup Monday, April 15, 2024, By Dara Harper
• Libraries’ Read and Publish Agreement With Springer Allows Easier Open Access for Researchers Monday, April 15, 2024, By Cristina Hatem
• Maxwell’s Natalie Koch Speaks on ‘Arid Empire’ for Arizona State Library Monday, April 15, 2024, By News Staff
• For Many Graduate Students, Community-Engaged Scholarship Gives Extra Meaning to the Educational Experience Monday, April 15, 2024, By Diane Stirling
• Graduate School Marshal Takes Community-Engaged Approach to Scholarship Monday, April 15, 2024, By Diane Stirling

More In Campus & Community

Giving for a common good: fraternities and sororities compete for the inaugural hendricks cup.

On March 27 there was energy in the air for Syracuse University’s 2024 Giving Day. This year, for the first time, Hendricks Chapel partnered with the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs and the Interfraternity Council to gather support for…

Dario Nardella, Mayor of Florence, Italy, to Address Syracuse University Graduates During 2024 Commencement

The Mayor of Florence, Italy, Dario Nardella, will deliver Syracuse University’s 2024 Commencement address Sunday, May 12, in the JMA Wireless Dome. The ceremony will begin at 9:30 a.m. Nardella was first elected in 2014 and is currently serving his…

Libraries’ Read and Publish Agreement With Springer Allows Easier Open Access for Researchers

Syracuse University Libraries recently signed its 12th ‘read and publish’ open access agreement, this time with major academic publisher Springer, expanding the reach of researchers’ scholarly contributions by enabling all University-affiliated authors the ability to publish their work open access in…

Maxwell’s Natalie Koch Speaks on ‘Arid Empire’ for Arizona State Library

Natalie Koch, professor of geography and the environment in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, recently gave an address for the State of Arizona Research Library’s 2024 Arizona Author Series on connections between desert agriculture in the Southwest…

For Many Graduate Students, Community-Engaged Scholarship Gives Extra Meaning to the Educational Experience

Graduate-level learning, research and creative activities take place in classrooms, labs and studios on the Syracuse University campus, but they also occur throughout the community as graduate students work with local residents of all ages and backgrounds through partnerships with…

Subscribe to SU Today

If you need help with your subscription, contact [email protected] .

Connect With Us

For the media.