A thesis statement is a sentence located in the introductory paragraph that states the main idea and position on a topic. It organizes the paper and is not the same as the title. To write a thesis statement, one must determine their topic of interest, conduct preliminary research to see if there is enough information to form an argument, choose a side on what they believe about the topic, and write a sentence that includes the main idea and their belief on the subject. A good thesis statement is clear, arguable, requires research to prove, contains a single main idea, and is about something important in the past.

1. HOW TO WRITE A THESIS
STATEMENT
Presented by L. Senior, Teacher Librarian

2. WHAT IS A THESIS STATEMENT?
 A sentence that states your main idea
and position on your topic.
 Organizes your paper.
 Located in your introductory paragraph.
 A thesis statement is NOT your title!

3. HOW DO YOU WRITE A THESIS STATEMENT?
Action Result
Determine what you are interested in. Women in politics
Conduct preliminary research to see if
there is enough information to form an
argument on your topic.
Have women played a significant role in United States
politics?
Choose a side: what is it that you
believe about your topic?
“Women have not held as many positions as men, but
they have played significant roles.”
Write a sentence/statement that
includes your main idea and your
belief on the subject.
Although women have held fewer positions in political
office, the roles they have filled have been significant in
United States politics.

4. PRELIMINARY THESIS STATEMENT
1. Is it clear what the project will be about?
2. Is it arguable? Is there something that has to be
proven?
3. Will research be necessary to prove the thesis?
4. Is there only one main idea?
5. Is it about something in the past that is
important?