This document provides guidance on writing an effective thesis statement. It explains that a thesis statement should answer the main question of the paper and state the key argument to be proven. It also notes that a thesis statement contains sub-points that will be discussed in the body paragraphs. The document then provides examples of strong and weak thesis statements and strategies for developing different types of thesis statements, such as cause/effect, compare/contrast, and argumentative theses.

1. Say What You Mean; Mean What You Say Creating a SOUND Thesis Statement

3. States the main point that you will prove in your paper in one sentence.

4. Uses specific language and specific ideas.

5. Generates an argument and alludes to the facts that will support the claim.

7. The thesis statement is asserting an opinion or idea, so it should not be a question.

8. A thesis statement also contains sub points, or the facts that support the main argument. These sub points will be the topic sentences in each of the “body” paragraphs in the essay.

10. THE THESIS FORMULA Your Argument+Your main Points=Your Thesis!

11. Where to begin! Ask yourself the following questions. What is the purpose of my essay? What is the point I am trying to prove? What are the facts I will use to prove those points? Does my position answer the question/prompt?

12. The “so what” test A good thesis statement must be specific. In order to help make your thesis as specific as possible, you should give it the “so what” test.” Ask yourself “so what” at the end of each of your main ideas in your thesis. “I like to run.” So what? This is not making an argument or case! “I like to run because it is fun.” Again, so what? How does this relate to your reader? “Running is beneficial because it helps us to stay fit and have more energy.” So what? Again, though this is more specific, you have yet to complete the thought and make it applicable to the reader. “Running is beneficial because it helps us to stay fit and have more energy SO THAT we can live a long and healthy life.”

13. Three-Part Thesis statements One way to develop your thesis statement is by increasing its specificity in three parts then give an overall application at the end. Example: Geographers use maps as sources. Three-Part Thesis: Geographers use maps, documents, and artifacts as sources to learn more about a place and culture.

15. How can you turn this question into the first part of your thesis statement?

17. This type of thesis follows the “If/Then” line of thinking.

18. Let’s say your essay prompt is “How can middle school students learn more about geography?

19. Cause and Effect Thesis:

21. Compare & Contrast Thesis You will often be asked to compare and contrast two topics in your writing. Let’s practice together! Essay Prompt: What are the similarities and differences between inductive and deductive reasoning? Essay Thesis: “While inductive and deductive reasoning both involve drawing conclusions and explaining ideas, deductive reasoning takes a topic from the broad to the specific while inductive reasoning moves from the specific to a more broad approach.”

22. Problem & Solution Essays Many essays ask you to suggest solutions to a problem after performing research into a topic. Example Essay: Teen alcohol use is a widespread problem and is very dangerous. Please discuss how to prevent teens from using alcohol after researching its negative effects. Thesis Statement: “To prevent teens from using alcohol and making poor choices as a result of intoxication, parents should maintain open lines of communication encourage healthy friendships, and provide positive role models for their teen children.”

23. Analysis of benefits/Drawbacks You may also be asked to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of something after performing research. Example Essay: Please discuss the positive and negative effects of the Federal Banking System. Example Thesis: “While the Federal Banking system does provide monetary security for investors and accountability, recent bailouts of major national banks have shown that the system comes at a high price, namely high taxes for American citizens. “

24. Argumentative Thesis Many times you are asked to take a position and state your personal opinion in an essay. HOWEVER, it is not proper to use first person in formal essays. So, how do you state your opinion without stating “I?” You PROVE your points clearly thereby convincing the reader you are right! Example Essay: Do you agree or disagree with the use of capital punishment? Example Thesis: Capital punishment should be used in every state as it is a good deterrent to crime, enacts justice for victims of a crime, and keep criminals off the streets.

25. Thesis Process Review Ask yourself what type of question is being asked. Identify the type of thesis statement you will write (If/Then, Argumentative, etc.) Turn the subject of the question into your main topic. Write the second part of your thesis based upon the type of question you are being asked. Give your thesis the “so what” test! Revise accordingly. Write your essay!