A thesis should declare an arguable position and map out what the paper intends to prove. It should be specific and focused on a single topic, avoiding vague language. An effective thesis passes the "So what?" test by establishing why the topic matters. For an argumentative paper, the thesis states the topic and angle of argument. Good theses are found at the end of introductions and guide the reader through the work.

1. What is a thesis?

2. A thesis...
...declares what you believe and what you
intend to prove.

3. A thesis...
...should be contestable, proposing an arguable
point with which people could reasonably
disagree.

4. A clear thesis...
...is specific and focused. A strong thesis
proves a point without discussing “everything
about …”

5. A thesis...
...provides the reader with a map to guide
him/her through your work.

6. A thesis...
...usually comes at the end of the introduction
(opening paragraph).

7. It should...
...avoid vague language (like "it seems")
...avoid the first person ("I believe," "In my
opinion")

8. It should...
...pass the So What? or Who Cares? Test
(Would your most honest friend ask why s/he
should care or respond with "but everyone
knows that"?)

9. For the Math-Minded...
Simple equations for a thesis might look
something like this:
Thesis =
Specific topic + Attitude/Angle/Argument
Thesis =
What you plan to argue + How you plan to argue it

10. Is this a thesis?
I would like to become a chef when I finish
school.
Although both chefs and cooks can prepare
fine meals, chefs differ from cooks in education,
professional commitment, and artistry.

11. Is this a thesis?
I enjoy white water rafting.
A first water rafting experience can challenge
the body and spirit and transform an adolescent
into an adult.

12. Prompt: Early in life, people develop
an admiration for heroes. In a well-
developed essay, discuss a person
you admire and why you chose this
person.
Option A: One person worthy of admiration is
Babe Ruth, who played baseball from 1914
until 1935.
Option B: One person worthy of admiration is
Babe Ruth, the greatest baseball player of all
time.

13. Discuss the social, political, and economic
effects of World War II on the United States.
Option A: World War II was a costly war that had a
major impact on the economy of the United States.
Option B: World War II not only affected the
economy of the United States, but also altered the
role of the American government and the American
people forever.
Option C: World War II changed the political
landscape, social structure, and economy of the
United States.

14. Now you are ready!
In a well developed essay define freedom?
Use examples from our "Search for Freedom"
and Antz to support your definition.
Thesis Option: As seen in nature and the
movie Antz, freedom is...