how to write thesis statements

1. Outline of an
Argumentative Essay
• Written in a five-paragraph structure
• The format consists of:
• An introduction,
• 2-3 body paragraphs, and
• A conclusion.

2. General overview of the Argumentative Essay
1. Introduction
1.1.Hook Statement: To captivate readers’
interest from the very beginning.

3. 1.2.Background Information:
To present any necessary context to narrow the focus of the discussion
To transition the train of thought toward the thesis statement.
1.3. Thesis Statement:
Present the focal point/central argument of your entire paper.
Remember – your primary objective is to defend your idea, so the thesis must directly state
what your idea is and why it is correct.

4. How to Write an
Introductory
Paragraph
• Your introductory paragraph
should capture your
audience’ attention and
properly introduce your
topic to the reader.

5. Introductory Paragraph-Inverted
Pyramid
Hook: Captures your reader’s attention with
a specific quote, interesting fact, or
anecdote
General background information
about the topic to lead your
reader to thesis statement
Thesis
statement

6. 1. Hook
Popular Types of
Hooks for an Essay:
In order to make your
essay look appealing,
there are 5 excellent
hooks that you can try
out.

7. Hook: The
Interesting
Question
A Question hook is quite an interesting
strategy used by many writers.
Why? People are inquisitive by nature.
The main goal of the question hook is
to signal the readers to go through the
entire essay to find out the answer.
Here’s a perfect example of a
Question hook:
Is Vitamin D really essential for the
proper functioning of the body?

8. The Interesting Question
• Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a world
without music? A world where there are no melodies to soothe
your soul, no rhythms to make you dance, and no lyrics to
express your emotions. For many of us, music is an essential
part of our lives. It has the power to uplift our mood, transport
us to another place and time, and connect us with others. That
is why it is worth considering its importance in our lives and why
it is such a fundamental aspect of human culture.

9. Hook : The Statistic or Fact
• Statistics and facts never fail in impressing the readers as it provides actual information on the topic.
• If in the introduction of the essay, you include facts and evidence that are reliable and accurate, then
readers might find it interesting and go through the rest part of your essay.
• Use only credible sources and evaluate the information twice before providing it.
• Also, ensure that whatever information you are providing, it must be related to the topic.
For example:
According to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association, 43% of adults claim that stress has
caused them to lie awake at night in the past month.
While purchasing any organic products from supermarkets, it is an undeniable fact that we pay more because
their production needs more labor efforts and large investments.
•

10. General statement
Another example of Facts Hook
• Many studies show that the biological sleep pattern for teens
shifts a few hours, which means teens naturally stay up later
and feel alert later in the morning. School days should be
adjusted so that they are more in sync with the teenager's
natural sleep or wake cycle. (the thesis): If every school day
started at ten o'clock, many students would find it easier to
stay focused and improve their learning.

11. According to recent research studies, the average American
spends over six hours a day using digital media devices such
as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. This astounding figure
highlights the increasing reliance on technology in our daily
lives and raises important questions about the impact of digital
media on our well-being. Thus, exploring the potential
negative effects of excessive screen time and suggesting
practical strategies for reducing dependence on technology is

12. The Quotation Hook
Ensure to quote the exact
words.
Use quotations from a
famous personality, but it is
not always necessary to
quote someone who is
famous.
Make sure to use quotations
with whom you can connect
to what you are writing.
Always select those
quotations where the words
included are powerful,
memorable, and striking
enough to create an impact
upon the readers.

13. Quote
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to
change the world." These are the inspiring words of Nelson
Mandela, the first black president of South Africa, who
understood the transformative power of education. Hence,
education is not just about gaining knowledge, but also about
changing one's perspective and shaping the future. As such, it
is worth exploring the various ways in which education can be
a powerful tool for social change and personal growth.

14. Another example of a quote hook +
its thesis statement
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that
counts." This quote by Winston Churchill embodies the essence of
resilience, the ability to bounce back from failure and keep moving forward.
In today's fast-paced and competitive world, students face numerous
challenges, including academic setbacks and personal obstacles. However,
it's the resilience of students in the face of these failures that separates the
successful from the unsuccessful. Therefore, the concept of resilience and
its importance in the academic and personal lives of students needs to be
explored. Specifically, delving into the ways in which resilience can be
fostered in students is crucial, as it plays a vital role in their overall success
and well-being.

15. The Story Hook
"Growing up in Toronto, I always thought my understanding of the English language was universal.
That is, until I took a trip to New York City and tried to order a coffee. The barista looked at me
blankly when I asked for a 'double-double,' a term that every Canadian knows refers to a coffee
with two creams and two sugars. It was then that I realized just how much Canadian English
differs from American English, even in seemingly small ways."
Let’s take an example of a story hook:
Make sure that the story hook is directly connected to the topic of your essay or paper.
As readers love stories, this hook can attract a lot of readers, and thus, they will read the whole essay/paper out of curiosity to know how it
will end.
Why effective?
Begin your essay with a short story or an interesting episode.

16. 2. General Background
Information
The more specific your
topic, the less likely
your readers will be
well-informed about
your topic.
To keep your audience
from being confused,
you need to briefly
provide background
information on your
topic.

17. Let’s look at an
example:
• A helicopter parent is a parent who pays
extremely close attention to a child's or children's
experiences and problems, particularly at
educational institutions. Helicopter parents are so
named because, like helicopters, they "hover
overhead", overseeing every aspect of their child's
life constantly.

18. • Hook: "Did you know that the United States has a long history
of promoting democracy around the world?"
• Background Knowledge: "The United States has often justified
its foreign policy actions as spreading democracy and freedom
to other countries. However, this commitment to democratic
ideals has not always been consistent. In fact, many critics
argue that there are significant double standards in American
policies that contradict its professed values. One example of
such double standards is the US's support for authoritarian
regimes in countries such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt, despite
their records of human rights abuses and lack of democratic
institutions. This stands in contrast to the US's interventions in
countries like Iraq and Libya, which were justified as efforts to
promote democracy and overthrow authoritarian regimes.
By acknowledging this background knowledge, the essay can
provide a deeper context for its argument and demonstrate an
awareness of the complexities and contradictions of US foreign
policy.

19. What is a thesis statement?
Why do I need one?
• A thesis statement is a concise (brief) statement that
summarizes the main point or argument of an essay.
• It typically appears at the end of the introduction and guides
the reader in understanding the purpose and direction of the
essay.
• You need a thesis statement because it helps you focus your
writing and provides a clear and specific direction for your
work.
• It also helps your reader understand the main point you are
trying to make and why it is important.
• Without a thesis statement, your writing may lack coherence
and direction and may be less effective in communicating

20. An effective thesis—
 addresses the prompt if there is one* (i.e., answers the question).
 is usually at the end of the introduction paragraph.
 controls the content of all of the body paragraphs.
 is a complete sentence.
 does not announce the topic (e.g., “I’m going to talk about exercise.”).
 should not simply be a fact (e.g., “Many people exercise.”).
 should not be too general (e.g., “Exercise is good.”).
 should not be too specific (e.g., “Exercise decreases the chance of developing diabetes, heart
disease, asthma, depression, and anxiety.”).
 may state main points (e.g., “Exercise is essential because it improves overall physical and
mental health.”).
 may imply main points (e.g., “Exercise is essential for improving our well-being.”)

21. Strong Thesis Statements
• Be clear and specific
• Not be a fact, nor a question
• Reveal your opinion or position on the topic
• Include two controlling ideas that support your
opinion
• Avoid expressions like "My purpose is...," "I
intend to show ...," "In my opinion ...," "I feel
...," “ This essay will explore…”, etc.

23. Examples of
strong
thesis
statements
1. Smoking in public places should
be prohibited because it sets a
wrong example for young people
and second-hand smoke endangers
the health of non-smokers.
2. Taxes are a necessary part of
our society; without them,
governments could not pay for
infrastructure projects or social
programs.
3. College students should be
encouraged to pursue a career in
science because of the large
number of job options and the
higher salaries.

24. Exercise: Analyze a thesis.
Read the introduction paragraph below to complete this exercise.
Prompt: Why is exercise important?
Thesis: Exercise is essential because it improves overall physical and mental health.
• Use this list of criteria to evaluate the thesis.
A. Does the thesis address the prompt?
B. Is the thesis a complete sentence?
C. Does the thesis announce the topic?
D. Is the thesis simply a fact?
E. Is the thesis too general? Too specific?
F. Are the main points stated or implied?

25. Strong thesis statement: The use of renewable energy sources, such as wind and
solar power, is essential for reducing carbon emissions and combating climate
change.
Weak thesis statement: Climate change is a serious problem that affects the world.
Multiple choice questions:
1. Which of the following is a strong thesis statement?
a) Social media has some positive and negative effects on society.
b) Technology is important in our lives.
c) The use of smartphones can have negative effects on mental health.
d) Pollution is a serious problem.
2. Which of the following is a weak thesis statement?
a) The use of public transportation can reduce traffic congestion.
b) Eating healthy foods is important for maintaining good health.
c) The United Nations is an important organization for promoting global peace.
d) Education is important for personal and professional development.

26. Exercise: Identify effective thesis statements.
Which of the following is an effective thesis statement?
a) Smartphones are very popular in modern society.
b) Excessive use of smartphones can have negative effects on
mental health.
c) Smartphones are a great tool for communication and
entertainment.
d) Smartphones are not always easy to use.

27. Which of the following is an effective thesis statement?
a) The death penalty is a controversial issue.
b) The death penalty is an effective way to deter crime.
c) The death penalty does not effectively deter crime and may be
disproportionately applied to people of colour and those with low
income.
d) The death penalty is supported by many people.

28. Exercise: Evaluate thesis statements.
Which sentences are effective thesis statements? Which sentences are not effective
thesis statements? Write “yes” if you think the thesis is effective or “no” if you think
it is ineffective. Discuss why each thesis is (or is not) effective.

29. Prompt: Where is the best place for students to study?
1.Now I will show you the best place to study.
2. The benefits of studying in the library.
3. The library is the best place to study due to its many resources and quiet
environment.
4. The BYU library is the best place to study because it is open very late most
nights, usually until midnight, and students have busy schedules due to work,
family, school, friends, and church activities.
5. Why study in the library?
6. Libraries are quiet.
7. There are many features of typical libraries that make a library the best place for
students to study.
8. Is because library spaces are quiet and comfortable.
9. Studying is important.
10. In this essay, we will see how libraries are useful for many students.

30. Practice: Which is strong a thesis statement?
1. What are the effects of television violence on children?
2. Violence on television increases aggressive behavior in children.
3. While poor parenting and easy access to weapons may act as contributory factors, in fact when children
are exposed to television violence, they become less sensitive to the pain and suffering of others, are more
fearful of the world around them, and are more likely to behave in aggressive or harmful ways toward
others.
4. Playing video games is fun.
5. With more and more teens using smartphones and social media, cyberbullying is on the rise.
6. Cyberbullying puts a lot of stress on many teens and can cause depression, anxiety, and even suicidal
thoughts.

31. Practice: Which is strong a thesis statement?
7. Parents should limit the usage of smartphones, monitor their children's online activity, and
report any cyberbullying to school officials in order to combat this problem.
8. Video games are an important developmental tool for young people because they enhance
eye-hand coordination, develop complex problem-solving skills, and promote self-confidence
9. Engineering majors are often perceived as difficult because the student who enters these
majors are ill-prepared by their high school courses and have not developed critical thinking
skills.

32. How do you create the thesis?
1) Pick a topic. Smoking in public places.
2) Ask a question about that topic. Should smoking be banned in public
places?
3) Look at different sides of the argument. Do your research,
brainstorm, collect information on your topic and decide which side of
the argument is strongest.
4) Then write your thesis statement. Introduce the topic and your
opinion – Smoking in public should be banned because
5) Add two (or more) controlling ideas = the two strongest arguments
that support the thesis
Smoking in public places should be banned because second hand smoke
is dangerous to human health and some people are allergic to it.

33. An argumentative statement includes the topic, your position and the reasons
for your position based on your opinion.
Here's another example:
• Prompt: Write an argumentative paper describing the effects
social media has on people.
• Topic: Social media.
• Your position: Social media has a positive effect on people.
• Your reason: We have an increase in social awareness of people
from other parts of the world.
• Thesis statement: "Social media has a positive effect on people
because it allows us to increase our social awareness of people
from other cultures around the world who possess mindsets
different than our own."

34. A good or a bad thesis statement ?
• Advertising in public schools should be banned
due to its negative impact on students'
education, as it creates a distraction, reinforces
harmful societal values, and promotes
unhealthy habits.

35. Practice
Decide on two strong arguments in favor of these
thesis statements. Then write out a final thesis
statement using your two best ideas.
1. University degrees are essential to success.
2. Online education is a better way to learn than
face-to-face learning.

36. Let’s review
1. A thesis must be a complete sentence: Subject, verb, and object(s).
2. A thesis must not be a question, a fact or an obvious statement.
3. A weak thesis is simply a declaration of your topic or contains an obvious fact that cannot be argued, so do not use the first
person… “I think”, “In my opinion.”
4. A thesis must not use vague language.
5. A proper thesis statement provides a specific focus and suggests how the essay will be organized.
6. A thesis statement is your interpretation of the subject or your position regarding the subject, not the topic itself.
7. A strong thesis is specific, precise, and is able to be demonstrated.
8. A strong thesis challenges readers with a point of view that can be debated and can be supported with evidence.
9. Revise your thesis by ensuring all words are specific, all ideas are exact, and all verbs express action.

37. 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.
Example:
• Weak 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 working hard, the writer can better focus his or her research
and gain more direction in his or her writing.

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

39. 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.
• Weak thesis: Ontario schoolteachers are not paid enough.
• Revised thesis: The Ontario Ministry of Education 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?

40. 4. Omit any general claims that are hard to
support.
• Weak thesis: Today’s teenage girls are too sexualized.
• Revised thesis: Teenage girls who are captivated by the sexual images on social media are conditioned to believe
that a woman’s worth depends on her sensuality, a feeling that harms their self-esteem and behaviour.
• 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 behaviour show up?
• What are the repercussions?

41. Your Turn
• Review the thesis statements and write down
which mistake has been made in each.

42. How can a weak thesis be revised to make it
stronger and more insightful?
• Avoid asking a question: Clearly state a purpose or
position rather than posing a question.
• Weak: Should schools require students to take Physical Education
courses or play a school sport?
• Revised: A productive form of physical activity should be offered
by schools to encourage healthy exercise habits and to lower
childhood obesity rates.

43. Avoid making a statement of
fact or accepted knowledge:
• Establish a thesis that is arguable, debatable or questionable,
and state the how or why of the position clearly.
• Weak: Taking affirmative action is a way to
confront discrimination.
• Revised: Taking affirmative action is still
necessary today to confront discrimination
and ensure fair representation of gender and
ethnicity within universities and workplaces.

44. Avoid simply stating an
opinion:
• A thesis should state a position that is supported by
reliable evidence.
• Weak: Marijuana should not be legalized because
smoking it is morally wrong.
• Revised: Marijuana should not be legalized
because research has shown that its use negatively
affects brain cells, compromises the user’s
judgment, and can become addictive.

45. Avoid vague statements:
• Replace vague terms with relevant details that
address the who, what, where, when, why,
and/or how of the thesis.
• Weak: Teenagers have things easier than in the
past due to several advancements in society.
• Revised: Today’s teenagers can access information
quickly and easily due to technological
advancements such as the wide availability of
computers, high-speed Internet connections, and
electronically searchable databases.

46. Avoid including conflicting ideas and unnecessary information
• Focus consistently on one main idea and include only
relevant details that support your idea.
• Weak: Providing iPads for each student is probably
an unrealistic goal because damaging cuts are being
made to educational spending, but this new
technology should be provided as it is a useful tool
for teaching students several skills.
• Revised: Public schools should provide an iPad for each
student because the device can be used as a helpful
teaching tool in a variety of subject areas.

47. Examples:
• Thesis Statement: 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.
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or
oppose?
• Is my thesis statement specific enough?
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test?
• Revised one: Because not every voice on social media is
reliable, people have become much more critical consumers of
information, and thus, more informed voters.

48. Your Turn: Write 2 thesis
statements for this topic
TOPIC: Cell phones in public places and classes
1. Write a question that comes out of the topic.
2. Turn that question into a Thesis Statement.
Topic + Opinion + controlling ideas (2 or 3).

49. Example
2. TOPIC: Banning cell phones in public places
like restaurants and transit
Question: Should cell phones be banned in
restaurants?
Thesis: Cell phone use should be restricted in
restaurants in order to minimize the disruption
for diners and maximize the face-to-face dining
experience.
NOTE: See the parallel structure in the above
sentence.

50. Example of an essay 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.

51. Let’s dive into an Intro paragraph:
Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses
While college students in the U.S. are struggling with how to pay for college, there is another surprising demographic
that’s affected by the pressure to pay for college: families and parents. In the face of tuition price tags that total more
than $100,000 (as a low estimate), families must make difficult decisions about how to save for their children’s
college education. Saving for college is rarely feasible for most American families. Due to these challenging financial
circumstances and cultural pressure to give one’s children the best possible chance of success in adulthood, many
families are going into serious debt to pay for their children’s college education. The U.S. government should move
toward bearing more of the financial burden of college education.

52. Instructions. Answer the following questions.
1. What is the topic of the essay?
2. Does this intro provide an attention-grabbing opening sentence that
conveys the essay topic?
3.Does this intro provide relevant, engaging context about the essay topic?
4. Does this intro provide a thesis statement that establishes the writer’s
point of view on the topic and what specific aspects of the issue the essay
will address?

53. Answer to Q#1: Who should cover the cost of college education in the U.S., and
why?
Answer to Q#2
• First, the intro starts out with an attention-grabbing hook. The writer
starts by presenting an assumption (that the U.S. federal government bears
most of the financial burden of college education), which makes the topic
relatable to a wide audience of readers. Also note that the hook relates to
the general topic of the essay, which is the high cost of college education.
• The hook then takes a surprising turn by presenting a counterclaim:
that American families, rather than students, feel the true burden of paying
for college. Some readers will have a strong emotional reaction to this
provocative counterclaim, which will make them want to keep reading! As
such, this intro provides an effective opening sentence that conveys the
essay topic.

54. Answer to Q#3
• The second, third, and fourth sentences of the intro provide contextual details that reveal the
specific focus of the writer’s paper. Remember: the context helps readers start to zoom in on what
the paper will focus on, and what aspect of the general topic (college costs) will be discussed later
on.
• The context in this intro reveals the intent and direction of the paper by explaining why the issue of
families financing college is important. In other words, the context helps readers understand why
this issue matters, and what aspects of this issue will be addressed in the paper.
• To provide effective context, the writer refers to issues (the exorbitant cost of college and high levels
of family debt) that have received a lot of recent scholarly and media attention. These sentences of
context also elaborate on the interesting perspective included in the hook: that American families are
most affected by college costs.

55. Does the Intro Have a Thesis?
• Finally, this intro provides a thesis statement that conveys the writer’s point of view on the issue of financing college
education. This writer believes that the U.S. government should do more to pay for students’ college
educations. However, the thesis statement doesn’t give us any details about why the writer has made this claim or why this
will help American families. There isn’t an essay map that helps readers understand what points the writer will make in the
essay.
• To revise this thesis statement so that it establishes the specific aspects of the topic that the essay will address, the writer
could add the following to the beginning of the thesis statement:
• The U.S. government should take on more of the financial burden of college education because other countries have shown
this can improve education rates while reducing levels of familial poverty.
•

56. • Having public transport in rural communities helps people
improve their economic situation by giving them reliable
transportation to their job, reducing the amount of money
they spend on gas, and providing new and unionized
work.

57. Instructions. Evaluate the Intro below. If
need be, revise the thesis statement.
• What would happen to humanity if everyone just
stopped having babies? [HOOK] Although more
endemic in some places than others, the global
decline in birth rates has become a major issue
since the end of the
pandemic. [BACKGROUND] My purpose in this
research here is to show that not only that birth
rates are declining all over the world, but also that
unless the threats are addressed, these drastic
declines will only get worse. [THESIS
STATEMENT]

58. While other kids’ memories of circuses are happy and fun, what I recall most from my first
time at a circus was feeling sorry for the animals—I can still remember the sadness in their
eyes. [HOOK] Although animal rights in the circus have come a long way, their treatment of
animals even under the new laws is still cruelty plain and simple. [BACKGROUND] The way
circuses abuse animals needs to be abolished immediately, and we need to entirely rethink the
way we use animals for entertainment. [THESIS STATEMENT]

59. How do I structure body paragraphs?
• A paragraph structured this way would contain the following:
• Topic sentence – the first sentence in a body paragraph that tells the
reader what the main idea or claim of the paragraph will be.
• Explanation – Explain your claim in the topic sentence; Tell your
audience what you mean in greater detail.
• Evidence –to support your idea or claim, provide evidence (from
research findings, statistics from credible sources, facts, news articles,
academic books or journal articles).
• Remember that all evidence will require appropriate citation.
• Concluding statement –Summarize the paragraph's main idea, and
make clear how this supports your overall argument. Explain how your
evidence supports your claim (i.e. how does it ‘prove’ your topic
sentence?)

60. 2. Body Paragraphs
2.1.Topic Sentence: A topic sentence states the focus of the paragraph. The rest of
the body paragraph will give evidence and explanations that show why or how your
topic sentence is true.
Start with a sentence that transitions the focus from the previous paragraph to the
current one.

62. 2. Body Paragraphs
2.2.Explanation
After presenting your topic sentence, it is time to link your main sub-
argument to your thesis statement.
The goal is to explain how this point validates and strengthens your central
message.

63. 2. Body Paragraphs
• 2.3. Evidence
• After providing a valid claim, you must defend it with factual support.
• Examples of this can be statistics, references, or logical ideas that
support your claims; if this information comes from credible external
sources, it will add to the essay’s overall validity.
•

64. 2. Body Paragraphs
• 2.4. Concluding Statement
• End the body paragraph with a concluding statement.
• The primary goal: to summarize the overall significance of the claim to the
thesis.

65. Soft skills refer to a set of personal attributes that enable
individuals to interact effectively with others. In the professional
world, soft skills are essential for success as they complement
technical expertise and increase an individual's ability to
communicate and work efficiently within a team. Effective
communication, time management, adaptability, problem-solving,
and leadership skills are some examples of soft skills that are
highly sought after by employers. According to a study conducted
by the National Soft Skills Association, 85% of job success
comes from having well-developed soft skills. The importance of
soft skills is further emphasized by the fact that companies are
willing to pay a premium to hire candidates with excellent
communication and interpersonal skills. Therefore, it is crucial for
individuals to recognize the value of soft skills and prioritize their
development as they pursue their professional goals. In
summary, the evidence shows that possessing strong soft skills
is a critical factor for success in the professional world, and
individuals should invest in their development to achieve their
career aspirations.

66. The following body paragraph might appear in an essay
about why a school should use uniforms for students.
If students in our school were required to wear uniforms, instances of bullying and
teasing would decrease. If all students were required to wear a similar uniform,
this type of behaviour would decrease. In a survey of students, 60% of students
reported that they had been teased or bullied because of their clothing. In addition,
73% of students responded that school uniforms would help to create a sense of
unity and family in the school. When students feel a sense of unity and connection
to the school and their peers, they are less likely to tease each other. School
uniforms would help to create unity and decrease bullying and teasing between
students.

67. Example of a Body Paragraph
• [topic sentence] Those who oppose marijuana legalization claim that marijuana is a gateway
drug. [explanation] They believe that once someone tries marijuana, he or she will then move on
to harder, more dangerous drugs and become an addict. [supporting evidence] According to
Stacey Sugar (2021), the clinical director at the Towson-based Maryland Addiction Recovery
Network, “marijuana could be a gateway drug for some, but not everyone, and that a lot depends
on the user and whether they are predisposed to addiction…Marijuana is the easiest drug to get a
hold of after alcohol and cigarettes, and some of those who like a marijuana high may be more
interested in trying other highs” (qtd. in Snyder). [explanation of evidence] Her claim is that
addicts may want to try other highs beyond marijuana, and those drugs could potentially have
more devastating and addictive effects. [conclusion] In other words, critics of marijuana
legalization believe that once a person feels the altered experience of marijuana, he or she will
want to experience the increased sensations of dangerous, potentially life-destroying and
addictive drugs such as cocaine or methamphetamines.

68. Emotional intelligence, or EQ, is the ability to identify, understand,
and manage one's emotions effectively, as well as recognize and
respond appropriately to the emotions of others. In recent years, EQ
has become increasingly recognized as a crucial factor in
professional success. Studies have shown that individuals with high
EQ are more likely to have better relationships with colleagues,
exhibit more effective leadership qualities, and have higher levels of
job satisfaction. For instance, a study conducted by TalentSmart
found that 90% of top performers in the workplace had high EQ.
Additionally, individuals with high EQ tend to be more resilient,
adaptable, and better able to handle stress, which is particularly
important in fast-paced and high-pressure work environments. In
conclusion, the evidence suggests that emotional intelligence is a
vital component of professional success, and individuals should aim
to develop and enhance their EQ to maximize their potential and

69. Write a paragraph on the importance of
humility in Professional success with
the following components, but they are
scrambled . Ask students to read the
Paragraph and then unscramble it .
• Explanation, Evidence, Topic Sentence, Concluding Statement:
Humility is an essential trait in achieving professional success. Being
humble means recognizing one's limitations, accepting feedback, and
constantly striving to improve. This quality is particularly important in
leadership positions, where the ability to listen to and learn from
others is crucial. Studies have shown that leaders who demonstrate
humility are more effective and have better relationships with their
employees. For instance, a study conducted by KRW International
found that CEOs who were rated as having higher levels of humility
by their employees had better-performing companies. Additionally,
humility is essential in building and maintaining strong professional
relationships. By admitting mistakes and being open to feedback,
individuals can establish trust and respect with their colleagues. In
summary, evidence suggests that humility is an important factor in
professional success, as it promotes learning, growth, and positive
relationships in the workplace.

70. • Topic Sentence: Skillful and polite interruptions are important in
professional settings.
• Explanation of the Topic Sentence: In professional settings,
conversations and meetings often involve multiple participants, making
interruptions inevitable. Interruptions can be detrimental to effective
communication and can cause misunderstandings and frustration.
However, interrupting skillfully and politely can actually enhance
communication and productivity.
• Evidence: According to a study conducted by Harvard Business
Review, interruptions can have a significant impact on the quality and
outcome of a meeting. The study found that the most successful teams
were those that were able to balance contributions from all members
and minimize interruptions.
• Explanation of the Evidence: Interruptions can disrupt the flow of a
conversation and create a sense of chaos. However, skillful and polite
interruptions can be used to clarify information or redirect the
conversation in a positive direction. By doing so, interruptions can
actually improve the effectiveness of the discussion and prevent
misunderstandings.
• Concluding Statement: In conclusion, interruptions are inevitable in
professional settings, but the way they are managed can have a
significant impact on communication and productivity. Skillful and
polite interruptions, when used appropriately, can enhance
communication and prevent misunderstandings.

71. • Topic Sentence: There are several techniques that can be used to skillfully
interrupt in professional settings.
• Explanation of the Topic Sentence: Interrupting in a professional setting can be
difficult, but there are certain techniques that can help to make interruptions
more effective and less disruptive.
• Evidence: One technique is to use a transitional phrase, such as "if I may
interject" or "I have a point to add." This signals to the speaker that you have
something to contribute, without coming across as rude or dismissive.
• Explanation of the Evidence: Transitional phrases can help to make
interruptions feel more respectful and less abrupt. They also provide the
speaker with a moment to pause and acknowledge the interruption before
continuing.
• Evidence: Another technique is to ask a clarifying question before making your
point. This shows that you have been listening and can help to prevent
misunderstandings.
• Explanation of the Evidence: By asking a clarifying question, you can ensure
that you fully understand the speaker's point before making your own. This can
lead to a more productive and focused conversation.
• Evidence: Finally, it's important to be mindful of the tone and volume of your
interruption. A polite and respectful tone can make all the difference in how
your interruption is received.
• Explanation of the Evidence: Interrupting in a rude or aggressive manner can
create tension and damage relationships. By using a respectful tone and
appropriate volume, you can convey your point while maintaining a positive
and productive atmosphere.
• Concluding Statement: In conclusion, there are several techniques that can be
used to interrupt skillfully in professional settings. By using transitional phrases,
asking clarifying questions, and being mindful of tone and volume, interruptions

72. Exercise #1: Analyze a topic sentence
Read the example body paragraph below to complete this exercise.
Prompt: Why is exercise important?
Thesis of the entire essay: Exercise is essential because it improves overall physical and mental health.
Because it makes your body healthier, exercise is extremely important. One of the physical benefits of exercise
is having stronger muscles. The only way to make your muscles stronger is to use them, and exercises like
crunches, squats, lunges, push-ups, and weight-lifting are good examples of exercises that strengthen your
muscles. Another benefit of exercise is that it lowers your heart rate. A slow heart rate can show that our hearts
are working more efficiently and they don’t have to pump as many times in a minute to get blood to our organs.
Related to our heart beating more efficiently, our blood pressure decreases. These are just some of the
incredible health benefits of exercise.
After finding the topic sentence, use the following criteria to evaluate the topic sentence.
1. Does the topic sentence clearly support the thesis statement?
2. Is the topic sentence at the beginning of the body paragraph?
3. Does the topic sentence control the content of all the supporting sentences?
4. Is the topic sentence a complete sentence?
5. Does the topic sentence announce the topic?
6. Is the topic sentence too general? Is it too specific?

73. • "Apples are a type of fruit that are grown on trees and are high in vitamins and nutrients. They come in a variety of colors
including red, green, and yellow. Apples can be eaten raw, cooked, or processed into juice or sauce. They are a popular snack
and can be used in many recipes, such as pies, cakes, and salads. Apples are also a good source of fiber, which helps with
digestion and can lower the risk of heart disease."
• In this paragraph, the main idea is "Apples are a type of fruit that are high in vitamins and nutrients."
• The supporting details are:
• Grown on trees
• Come in a variety of colors (red, green, yellow)
• Can be eaten raw, cooked, or processed into juice or sauce
• Popular snack
• Used in many recipes (pies, cakes, salads)
• Good source of fiber
• Helps with digestion
• Lowers the risk of heart disease

74. Social media has become a ubiquitous part of our daily lives, but it is important to remember
that not everything we see online is true. Many people use social media to manipulate public
opinion, spread false information, and influence elections. Furthermore, social media
algorithms prioritize content that is likely to keep users engaged, even if it is misleading or
harmful. This means that we are often exposed to a skewed version of reality on these
platforms. It is crucial that we critically evaluate the information we encounter on social
media and seek out reliable sources to verify its accuracy."
In this paragraph, the main idea is "We should not trust social media".
The supporting details are:
• People use social media to manipulate public opinion and spread false information
• Social media algorithms prioritize content that is likely to keep users engaged, even if it is
misleading or harmful
• We are often exposed to a skewed version of reality on these platforms
• It is important to critically evaluate information encountered on social media
• Reliable sources should be sought to verify the accuracy of information.
•

75. Many individuals struggle with procrastination, whether it be putting off work until the last minute or delaying decisions.
One of the main reasons for this behaviour is fear of failure, as individuals may be afraid to face the possibility of not
succeeding. Another factor is a lack of motivation, as some people simply do not feel inspired to tackle a task.
Additionally, distractions and disorganization can also contribute to procrastination, as it becomes easy to get sidetracked
or to lose focus on the task at hand. To combat procrastination, it is important to identify the underlying causes and to
develop strategies to overcome them.
• The topic sentence in this paragraph is "Many individuals struggle with procrastination, whether it be putting off work
until the last minute or delaying decisions."
•

76. • "Individuals with low self-worth often struggle with negative
self-talk, feelings of inadequacy, and a lack of confidence.
This can stem from various sources, including childhood
experiences, past failures, and societal pressures. For
example, someone who was frequently criticized or belittled
growing up may have internalized those negative messages
and believe that they are not good enough. Similarly,
someone who has experienced multiple failures may feel
discouraged and doubt their abilities. Furthermore, societal
expectations and comparisons to others can also contribute
to a lack of self-worth. It is important for individuals to
recognize and address the sources of their low self-worth in
order to improve their self-esteem and overall well-being."
• The topic sentence in this paragraph is "Individuals with low
self-worth often struggle with negative self-talk, feelings of
inadequacy, and a lack of confidence."

77. Exercise 2: Identify topic sentences.
Each group of sentences has three supporting sentences and one topic
sentence. The topic sentence must be broad enough to include all of the
supporting sentences. In each group of sentences, choose which sentence is
the topic sentence.
Group 1: Topic sentence: _________
A. In southern Utah, hikers enjoy the scenic trails in Zion National Park.
B. Many cities in Utah have created hiking trails in city parks for people to
use.
C. There are hiking paths in Utah’s Rocky Mountains that provide beautiful
views.
D. Hikers all over Utah can access hiking trails and enjoy nature.

78. Group 2: Topic sentence: _________
1.People in New York speak many different languages.
2.New York is a culturally diverse city.
3.People in New York belong to many different religions.
4.Restaurants in New York have food from all over the world.

79. Group 3: Topic sentence: _________
1.Websites like YouTube have video tutorials that teach
many different skills.
2.Computer programs like PowerPoint are used in
classrooms to teach new concepts.
3.Technology helps people learn things in today’s world.
4.Many educational apps have been created to help
children in school.

80. • Group 4: Topic sentence: _________
1.Museums in Toronto host events on the weekends for
students.
2.There are many fun activities for students in Toronto on
the weekends.
3.There are incredible student concerts in Toronto on Friday
and Saturday nights.
4.Toronto clubs plan exciting activities for students to do on
the weekends.

81. • Group 5: Topic sentence: _________
1.Some places have a scent that people remember when
they think of that place.
2.The smell of someone’s cologne can trigger a memory of
that person.
3.Smelling certain foods can bring back memories of eating
that food.
4.Many different memories can be connected to specific
smells.

82. Exercise: Write topic sentences
• Read each paragraph. Write a topic sentence on the line at the beginning of the paragraph.
A._______ The first difference is that you have more privacy in a private room than in a
shared room. You can go to your room to have a private phone call or Skype with your family
and you are not bothered by other people. When you share your room, it can be hard to find
private time when you can do things alone. Another difference is that it is lonelier in a private
room than in a shared room. When you share your room with a roommate, you have someone
that you can talk to. Frequently when you have a private room, you are alone more often.
These two housing options are very different.
B. _______ People like to eat chocolate because it has many delicious flavors. For example,
there are mint chocolates, milk chocolates, dark chocolates, white chocolates, chocolates with
honey, and chocolates with nuts. Another reason people like to eat chocolate is because it
reduces stress, which can help people to relax and feel better. The last reason people like to
eat chocolate is because it can be cooked in many different ways. You can eat chocolate
candies, mix chocolate with warm milk to drink, or prepare a chocolate dessert. These
reasons are some of the reasons that people like to eat chocolate.

83. C. _______ A respectful roommate does not leave the main areas of the
apartment messy after they use them. For example, they wash their dishes
instead of leaving dirty pots and pans on the stove. They also don’t borrow
things from other roommates without asking to use them first. In addition to
respecting everyone’s need for space and their possessions, the ideal
roommate is respectful of his or her roommate’s schedule. For example, if
one roommate is asleep and the other roommates needs to study, the ideal
roommate goes to the kitchen or living room instead of waking up the
sleeping roommate. These simple gestures of respect make a roommate an
excellent person to share an apartment with.

85. Exercise: Identify good supporting sentences.
Read the topic sentence. Then circle which sentences would be good supporting
sentences.
Topic Sentence: Eating pancakes for breakfast saves time and money.
1.Pancakes can be prepared in large quantities and then frozen, so the time it
takes to cook breakfast is only a few minutes.
2.Pancakes are very inexpensive to make because you only need a few
ingredients.
3.Pancakes are delicious and can be prepared in a variety of flavors.
4.Pancakes save money because you can buy a big box of mix and only make
what you need; you don’t waste money because you can save the extra mix for
another time.
5.Fresh fruit is a really quick breakfast because you only need to wash it and eat it.

87. Exercise: Identify good concluding
sentences.
Read the topic sentence. Then circle which sentences would be good
concluding sentences.
Topic Sentence: A shared room offers students a more social
experience.
1.Students who want more social interaction should have a shared
room.
2.A shared room is not good for students who work late.
3.Everyone loves having a shared room.
4.These examples illustrate how much more social a shared room
can be.
5.Really social students will enjoy having a shared room.

88. Exercise: Write concluding sentences.
On a piece of paper, write a concluding sentence at the end of each paragraph.
1. New York is a culturally diverse city. This culture is continually broadened because people
immigrate from all over the world bringing different religions, food, and languages with them.
This city has people that speak over 30 languages, including Arabic, Mandarin, Untu,
Russian, and Polish. There are also more than 20 major religions represented by citizens of
New York. These citizens brought more than their language and religion with them, however.
They also brought traditional foods from their countries. _______
2. Technology helps people learn things in today’s world. This educational technology
includes various websites, apps, programs, and many more things. Popular websites that
are used for education include YouTube, TED, Canvas, and CrashCourse. Similarly, there
are a variety of educational apps. These apps help users learn languages, history, math, and
other practical skills. Computer programs are yet another way to use technology as a way to
help people learn. Programs like PowerPoint are frequently used in classrooms as a means
to deliver visual support to a lecture or presentation. This visual support aids learning and
retention. _______

89. Example: Body Paragraph
Family benefits are among the most important reasons homeschooling is superior to traditional
schooling. It is a widely-recognized problem that children who attend public and private schools
are gone all day only to come home and spread their schoolwork out on the table, usually
working in isolation to complete the day’s assigned tasks. With homeschooling, parents and
children can work side-by-side, sharing learning experiences, reading one another books, and
developing life-long bonds. Brian D. Ray of the National Home Education Research Institute
notes that parents and students reap the rewards of cultivating those close relationships as the
children grow. Instead of teenagers moaning about how their parents don't understand, those
teens have spent years learning that their parents are a reliable source of life wisdom and
direction. For those who value family relations, homeschooling is the obvious choice; yet, the
practice is beneficial for other reasons as well, such as the fact that homeschooled adolescents
generally perform better academically than their public-school counterparts.

90. 3. Conclusion
3.1.Restate the Thesis:
A restatement of your central message (thesis statement).
3.2. Brief Summarization of Sub-Arguments:
Go back through and review your main points, giving your argument closure.

91. 3.3.Overall Concluding Statement:
To end your argumentative essay outline with a bang, present a
memorable concluding statement. Usually, this sentence will
express the universal importance of the information and should
leave the reader with a prompt to further investigate the topic.

92. Research Papers: Writing Body
Paragraphs
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2xV00ei
a8c

93. APA referencing: Journal
article
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sub6lNO6
uBY

94. Writing an Article Summary
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RalgVnz7
aJQ