2.1 Thesis Statement
Part A
Developing a Thesis Statement
In order to write a focused and organized essay, you need a strong thesis statement to
guide your writing. It is a summary of the main points you plan to write about and
communicates the significance of your topic. The reason for writing your essay is to prove
your thesis statement to your audience. It appears at the end of your essay introduction.
What makes a good thesis statement?
• It makes a declarative statement with an interesting perspective that you can
support and/or defend about your topic.
• It controls the entire essay; it determines what you are going to say (and not say).
Every paragraph in your essay exists only to support your thesis statement.
• It provides structure for your essay. It signals what your purpose is and how your
essay will be organized. (parallelism)
o For example, you are going to write that, “Students should use effective study
habits X, Y, and Z to be more successful in school.” This has now made your
reader aware that you are going to have 3 important points to discuss (X, Y,
and Z), and that they will appear in that order in your essay.
How do I write my thesis statement?
Before you write your thesis statement, you should decide on the purpose of your essay
and determine at least 3 different pieces of evidence to support that purpose.
1. Name your topic.
2. Choose your purpose or focus.
3. State your intentions by adding a group of words summarizing your main points as
evidence.
4. Create a working thesis statement using concrete and specific language.
Example:
TOPIC: Dog adoption
PURPOSE: Argument in favor of dog adoptions
MAIN POINTS:
• adopting a dog saves lives.
• provides a faithful friend and family member.
• supports ethical breeding practices.
• is cost-effective.
• reduces overpopulation.
