Thesis Statement Examples Ingl 3103 Instructor: K.

Long

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. makes a claim that others might dispute. is usually a single sentence somewhere in your first paragraph (preferably the end) 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. For an argumentative paper: The thesis statement for an argumentative paper clearly states your side of the argument and why you hold that position. The thesis statement should fulfill the following tasks: Clarify a narrow topic, express the opinion on that topic, and have an objective, academic tone. Sometimes qualify major ideas, clarify major elements, and acknowledge the readers knowledge of the topic. Make sure that the statement or objective is focused, concise, and well-worded.

How to Make Sure the Thesis is Strong A strong thesis statement in an argumentative essay will always be definitive. There is no middle ground with a thesis in this type of essay; it is either for or against a certain subject. A weak thesis statement will not inform the reader of what is trying to be proved, and can be very confusing. For example: There are both pros and cons to using Product X, because This statement doesnt say what is being proven. It doesnt take a side in the argument, which is Is Product X a good product for me to use? The thesis statement could be made strong if it is written so that it takes a side: Product X poses a health risk to consumers, because it leaks radiation and hasnt received government approval to be sold in the United States. This thesis takes a definite side, saying that Product X is bad for the consumer, and states the reasons why. It is extremely specific and presents the reader with the main point that the piece is trying to prove, as well as the evidence behind it. This is how a thesis statement for an argumentative essay is written.