English
Thesis statements.
Definition
A thesis statement is a single sentence, usually at the end of the introduction, that presents the main argument or central claim of an essay. It acts as a roadmap telling the reader exactly what the essay will argue and, often, how it will be organized.
Examples
Real-world.
- 1 'While both candidates promised economic reform, only one offered a plan grounded in evidence-based policy.' — a compare/contrast thesis
- 2 'The school district should adopt later start times because research shows they improve attendance, grades, and mental health.' — an argumentative thesis with three supporting reasons
- 3 'Through its unreliable narrator, Gone Girl critiques society's obsession with performative marriage.' — a literary analysis thesis
Key Fact
A thesis should be arguable (not a fact), specific (not vague), and supportable (with available evidence).