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Identifying Thesis Statements, Claims, and Evidence

Thesis statements, claims, and evidence, introduction.

The three important parts of an argumentative essay are:

• A thesis statement is a sentence, usually in the first paragraph of an article, that expresses the article’s main point. It is not a fact; it’s a statement that you could disagree with.  Therefore, the author has to convince you that the statement is correct.
• Claims are statements that support the thesis statement, but like the thesis statement,  are not facts.  Because a claim is not a fact, it requires supporting evidence.
• Evidence is factual information that shows a claim is true.  Usually, writers have to conduct their own research to find evidence that supports their ideas.  The evidence may include statistical (numerical) information, the opinions of experts, studies, personal experience, scholarly articles, or reports.

Each paragraph in the article is numbered at the beginning of the first sentence.

Paragraphs 1-7

Identifying the Thesis Statement. Paragraph 2 ends with this thesis statement:  “People’s prior convictions should not be held against them in their pursuit of higher learning.”  It is a thesis statement for three reasons:

• It is the article’s main argument.
• It is not a fact. Someone could think that peoples’ prior convictions should affect their access to higher education.
• It requires evidence to show that it is true.

Finding Claims.  A claim is statement that supports a thesis statement.  Like a thesis, it is not a fact so it needs to be supported by evidence.

You have already identified the article’s thesis statement: “People’s prior convictions should not be held against them in their pursuit of higher learning.”

Like the thesis, a claim be an idea that the author believes to be true, but others may not agree.  For this reason, a claim needs support.

• Question 1.  Can you find a claim in paragraph 3? Look for a statement that might be true, but needs to be supported by evidence.

Finding Evidence. 

Paragraphs 5-7 offer one type of evidence to support the claim you identified in the last question.  Reread paragraphs 5-7.

• Question 2.  Which word best describes the kind of evidence included in those paragraphs:  A report, a study, personal experience of the author, statistics, or the opinion of an expert?

Paragraphs 8-10

Finding Claims

Paragraph 8 makes two claims:

• “The United States needs to have more of this transformative power of education.”
• “The country [the United States] incarcerates more people and at a higher rate than any other nation in the world.”

Finding Evidence

Paragraphs 8 and 9 include these statistics as evidence:

• “The U.S. accounts for less than 5 percent of the world population but nearly 25 percent of the incarcerated population around the globe.”
• “Roughly 2.2 million people in the United States are essentially locked away in cages. About 1 in 5 of those people are locked up for drug offenses.”

Question 3. Does this evidence support claim 1 from paragraph 8 (about the transformative power of education) or claim 2 (about the U.S.’s high incarceration rate)?

Question 4. Which word best describes this kind of evidence:  A report, a study, personal experience of the author, statistics, or the opinion of an expert?

Paragraphs 11-13

Remember that in paragraph 2, Andrisse writes that:

• “People’s prior convictions should not be held against them in their pursuit of higher learning.” (Thesis statement)
• “More must be done to remove the various barriers that exist between formerly incarcerated individuals such as myself and higher education.” (Claim)

Now, review paragraphs 11-13 (Early life of crime). In these paragraphs, Andrisse shares more of his personal story.

Question 5. Do you think his personal story is evidence for statement 1 above, statement 2, both, or neither one?

Question 6. Is yes, which one(s)?

Question 7. Do you think his personal story is good evidence?  Does it persuade you to agree with him?

Paragraphs 14-16

Listed below are some claims that Andrisse makes in paragraph 14.  Below each claim, please write the supporting evidence from paragraphs 15 and 16.  If you can’t find any evidence,  write “none.”

Claim:  The more education a person has, the higher their income.

Claim: Similarly, the more education a person has, the less likely they are to return to prison.

Paragraphs 17-19

Evaluating Evidence

In these paragraphs, Andrisse returns to his personal story. He explains how his father’s illness inspired him to become a doctor and shares that he was accepted to only one of six biomedical graduate programs.

Do you think that this part of Andrisse’s story serves as evidence (support) for any claims that you’ve identified so far?   Or does it support his general thesis that “people’s prior convictions should not be held against them in pursuit of higher learning?” Please explain your answer.

Paragraphs 20-23

Andrisse uses his personal experience to repeat a claim he makes in paragraph 3, that “more must be done to remove the various barriers that exist between formerly incarcerated individuals such as myself and higher education.”

To support this statement, he has to show that barriers exist.  One barrier he identifies is the cost of college. He then explains the advantages of offering Pell grants to incarcerated people.

What evidence in paragraphs 21-23 support his claim about the success of Pell grants?

Paragraphs  24-28 (Remove questions about drug crimes from federal aid forms)

In this section, Andrisse argues that federal aid forms should not ask students about prior drug convictions.  To support that claim, he includes a statistic about students who had to answer a similar question on their college application.

What statistic does he include?

In paragraph 25, he assumes that if a question about drug convictions discourages students from applying to college, it will probably also discourage them from applying for federal aid.

What do you think about this assumption?   Do you think it’s reasonable or do you think Andrisse needs stronger evidence to show that federal aid forms should not ask students about prior drug convictions?

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Exploring the Differences: Are Thesis Statements and Claims Identical?

The article 'Exploring the Differences: Are Thesis Statements and Claims Identical?' delves into the nuanced distinctions between thesis statements and claims, two fundamental components of academic writing. While they may seem similar at first glance, understanding their differences is crucial for students and researchers aiming to craft compelling and well-structured arguments. This exploration sheds light on their definitions, structures, functions, and practical applications in scholarly work, providing clarity and guidance for those embarking on the journey of academic writing.

Key Takeaways

• Thesis statements and claims serve different purposes in academic writing, with the former presenting the main argument of a paper and the latter supporting or opposing specific points within that argument.
• The structure of a thesis statement is generally broader and more encompassing, while a claim is more focused and precise, often used to build upon the thesis.
• Understanding how to effectively construct and utilize both thesis statements and claims is essential for developing a coherent and persuasive academic argument.
• Evidence and validation play a critical role in supporting both thesis statements and claims, necessitating a careful selection and evaluation of supporting material.
• Incorporating these elements skillfully can significantly enhance reader comprehension and engagement, contributing to the overall impact and success of academic writing.

Defining the Concepts: Thesis Statements and Claims

The fundamental nature of thesis statements.

When you embark on the journey of academic writing, understanding the thesis statement is crucial. It serves as the compass for your research, guiding the direction of your inquiry and argumentation. A thesis statement articulates the central argument or position that your paper will support throughout. It is not merely a topic or a question, but a clear and concise declaration of your paper's purpose and scope.

To craft a robust thesis statement, you must distill your ideas into a single, coherent thought. It should be specific enough to give your readers a clear understanding of what to expect, yet flexible enough to allow for a comprehensive exploration of the subject. Consider the following characteristics of a strong thesis statement:

• It clearly communicates the main idea of the paper.
• It takes a stand that requires support and justification.
• It reflects a deep understanding of the topic.

Remember, your thesis statement will evolve as your research and writing progress. It is a living element of your paper that may require refinement to reflect new insights and evidence.

Understanding the Role of Claims in Academic Writing

In academic writing, claims play a pivotal role as the backbone of argumentation. They are assertions that you, as a writer, propose to your readers, and they require substantiation through evidence and reasoning. Unlike a thesis statement , which serves as the central argument of your entire paper, a claim can be a component of the thesis or a standalone statement within the body of your work.

Each claim you make should be clear and debatable, inviting scrutiny and discussion. It's essential to craft claims that are not only persuasive but also grounded in research. Here's a simple list to ensure your claims are effective:

• Ensure clarity and specificity to avoid ambiguity.
• Support your claims with credible evidence.
• Anticipate counterarguments and address them.
• Relate each claim back to your thesis statement to maintain coherence.

Remember, the strength of your argument relies on the solidity of your claims. By mastering the art of claim-making, you enhance the persuasive power of your academic writing.

Distinguishing Characteristics Between Thesis Statements and Claims

While you may often hear the terms thesis statement and claim used interchangeably in academic writing, they serve distinct purposes and exhibit unique features. A thesis statement is the backbone of your research paper, encapsulating the central argument or position that you will defend throughout your work. It sets the stage for your entire study, providing a clear direction and scope.

In contrast, claims act as the supporting pillars , each one representing a specific piece of evidence or argument that reinforces the thesis. These claims are the building blocks that support and develop your thesis, connecting back to it in a coherent manner. To effectively distinguish between the two, consider the following points:

• A thesis statement presents the overarching argument or position of your paper.
• Claims are assertions that provide support and detail to the thesis, often found within individual paragraphs or sections.
• The thesis is typically found at the beginning of your work, while claims are distributed throughout the text.

Understanding these differences is crucial for structuring your research paper effectively and ensuring that each component fulfills its intended role.

Structural Analysis: Components and Construction

Anatomy of a thesis statement.

When you begin to draft your thesis statement, you might confront thesis anxiety , a common concern among students. However, understanding the anatomy of a thesis statement can alleviate this stress. A thesis statement articulates the central argument or position of your essay . It's not merely a topic announcement; it's the guiding force of your entire argument, succinctly stating the point your essay will prove.

To construct a robust thesis statement, start with a clear, concise subject and predicate. For example, 'Ecological devastation has shaped my academic and professional goals.' This statement sets the stage for the essay, indicating both the topic and the writer's stance on it. As you refine your thesis, ensure it evolves from a broad declaration to a specific assertion that you can support with evidence throughout your essay.

Remember, your thesis statement will likely undergo several revisions. This iterative process is akin to a sculptor shaping a masterpiece from stone, transforming raw ideas into a polished argument. If you find yourself struggling, consider seeking support from writing centers or academic resources that can guide you through the drafting process.

Building Blocks of a Claim

When you delve into the construction of a claim, you'll find that it is not a monolithic statement but rather a carefully structured proposition. At its core, a claim consists of a central assertion that embodies the argument you wish to present. This assertion is supported by a series of premises or reasons that provide the foundation for your argument. Each premise acts as a building block , contributing to the overall strength and coherence of the claim.

To effectively construct a claim, you must ensure that your premises are both relevant and sufficient. Relevance is key, as each premise should directly support the central assertion. Sufficient evidence must accompany the premises to lend credibility to your claim. Here's a simple breakdown of the elements that constitute a claim:

• Central Assertion: The main point you are arguing.
• Premises: The reasons or statements that support the central assertion.
• Evidence: Data, facts, or citations that back up each premise.

Remember, a well-constructed claim is not only about stating an opinion; it is about persuading your audience through logical reasoning and empirical support . As you craft your claim, consider the logical structure and how each component contributes to your argument's persuasive power.

Comparative Analysis of Thesis and Claim Structures

When you delve into the structures of thesis statements and claims, you'll notice distinct layers that define their composition. A thesis statement typically presents a central idea that governs the entire work, often reflecting an overarching argument or a comprehensive point of view. In contrast, a claim is more focused, usually representing a specific argument within a larger discourse.

Both thesis statements and claims are composed of key components that articulate an argument , but their complexity and scope differ. The thesis is broader and requires extensive support throughout the document, while a claim, being narrower, can be substantiated within a smaller section of text. To illustrate the differences:

• Thesis Statement : A declarative sentence that encapsulates the main argument of an entire work.
• Claim : An assertion within the work that supports the thesis, often requiring evidence for each claim made.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial as you construct your academic writing. The thesis provides direction and sets expectations, while claims act as pillars, upholding the thesis with concrete evidence and reasoning.

Functional Perspectives: Purpose and Utilization

The directive function of thesis statements.

As you delve into the world of academic writing, you'll quickly realize the pivotal role of a thesis statement. It serves as the compass for your entire essay or research paper, directing the flow of your arguments and ensuring that every element aligns with your central premise. A thesis statement is not merely a topic; it is an assertion that requires evidence and analysis to support it.

In crafting your thesis statement, you must distill your ideas into a clear, concise declaration that encapsulates the essence of your argument. It should be specific enough to guide your writing but flexible enough to allow for exploration within your topic. A claim, as a statement that presents an idea or series of ideas as arguments , is a component of this process, but it is the thesis statement that orchestrates these claims into a coherent narrative.

Consider the following list to ensure your thesis statement effectively fulfills its directive function:

• Clearly state your position on the topic.
• Be specific and narrow enough to be thoroughly discussed within the confines of your assignment.
• Provide a roadmap for your paper by outlining the main points you will discuss.
• Remain adaptable to new insights that may emerge during your research and writing process.

Claims as Tools for Argumentation

In your academic writing, you wield claims as the primary tools for argumentation. Each claim you present acts as a stepping stone, building towards the overarching argument of your paper. Claims must be clear, concise, and supported by evidence to effectively persuade or inform your audience.

Consider the dynamics of a claim: it asserts a position, invites scrutiny, and demands justification. This process is not just about stating facts; it involves a careful balance of logic, reasoning, and the strategic use of information to advance your argument. To master the art of using claims, follow these key steps:

• Identify the main point you wish to argue.
• Gather relevant evidence to support your claim.
• Present the claim in a way that is both compelling and logically sound.
• Anticipate counterarguments and address them within your writing.

By meticulously crafting your claims and backing them with robust evidence, you enhance the persuasive power of your thesis and contribute meaningfully to the academic discourse.

Synergistic Roles in Supporting Academic Discourse

In the realm of academic writing, thesis statements and claims are not solitary actors; rather, they perform in concert to enhance the scholarly conversation. A thesis statement articulates the central argument of your work , serving as a compass for your research journey. It provides a clear direction for your exploration and sets the stage for the ensuing discourse.

Claims, on the other hand, are the building blocks that support your thesis, each one a stepping stone that fortifies your argument. They are assertions that require evidence and reasoning to be persuasive. Together, these elements create a dynamic interplay, with the thesis statement guiding the overall narrative and claims substantiating the argument, piece by piece.

Consider the following points that illustrate their collaborative function:

• Thesis statements offer a macro-level perspective, encapsulating the essence of your research.
• Claims provide micro-level insights, delving into specifics and enriching the discourse.
• The strength of a thesis is often measured by the quality and coherence of its supporting claims.
• Effective academic writing weaves these components seamlessly, ensuring that each claim resonates with the overarching thesis.

By understanding the synergistic roles of thesis statements and claims, you can craft a compelling and cohesive academic piece that resonates with your audience and contributes meaningfully to the scholarly dialogue.

Evaluating Evidence: Support and Validation

Criteria for supporting a thesis statement.

When you embark on the journey of crafting a compelling thesis statement, it's crucial to underpin it with robust support. Evidence must not only be relevant but also credible , ensuring that your thesis stands on a solid foundation of research and facts. To achieve this, consider the following points:

• Credibility of sources: Utilize academic journals, books, and reputable websites.
• Relevance to the thesis: Align your evidence directly with your thesis statement.
• Variety of evidence: Include statistics, quotes, and case studies for a well-rounded argument.
• Depth of analysis: Go beyond surface-level information to provide insightful commentary.

Remember, a thesis statement is your academic compass ; it guides the direction of your research and writing. By meticulously selecting and evaluating your evidence, you ensure that your thesis statement is not just a claim, but a compelling argument that resonates with your audience.

Evidence Framework for Claims

When you construct a claim in academic writing, it is imperative to underpin it with a robust evidence framework. The strength of your claim is directly proportional to the quality and relevance of the evidence you provide. To ensure that your claims are compelling, consider the following points:

• Relevance : The evidence must directly support the claim, addressing the central issue without digression.
• Credibility : Sources of evidence should be from reputable, authoritative sources.
• Sufficiency : A single piece of evidence is rarely enough; multiple sources can reinforce the claim's validity.
• Variety : Use a mix of evidence types—statistics, case studies, expert opinions—to enrich your argument.

Remember, a claim without evidence is merely an assertion. By meticulously selecting and presenting evidence, you transform your claim into a persuasive element of your academic discourse.

Assessing the Strength of Thesis Statements and Claims

To effectively assess the strength of thesis statements and claims, you must consider several critical factors. Clarity is paramount; a strong thesis or claim should be precise and understandable, leaving no room for ambiguity. It should also be arguable , presenting a perspective that invites discussion and analysis rather than stating a simple fact.

Consider the following points when evaluating the robustness of a thesis statement or claim:

• Scope : Is the statement or claim too broad or too narrow? It should be sufficiently focused to guide your research while allowing for comprehensive exploration.
• Support : Does the statement or claim have enough evidence to back it up? Strong arguments are built on a foundation of credible and relevant sources.
• Originality : Is the idea presented novel or does it offer a new take on an existing topic? Innovative perspectives often make for more compelling arguments.
• Relevance : How does the statement or claim relate to the larger context of the field? It should contribute meaningfully to ongoing scholarly conversations.

By scrutinizing these aspects, you can gauge the potential impact and scholarly value of your thesis statement or claim. Remember, a well-crafted argument not only stands up to scrutiny but also advances your academic discourse.

Practical Implications in Academic Writing

Incorporating thesis statements and claims in research papers.

When you embark on the journey of writing a research paper, understanding how to craft a compelling thesis statement and integrate supporting claims is crucial. Your thesis statement serves as the compass of your paper , guiding the direction of your argument and ensuring that each claim you make contributes towards your overall conclusion.

To effectively incorporate thesis statements and claims, follow these steps:

• Begin by how to find research question that resonates with your interests and fills a gap in existing literature.
• Construct a clear and concise thesis statement that encapsulates the essence of your research question.
• Develop claims that act as pillars, each one supporting and strengthening your thesis statement.
• Ensure that each claim is substantiated with robust evidence, which may include data, quotations, or analysis.

Remember, the synergy between your thesis statement and claims will not only bolster the integrity of your research but also enhance the reader's comprehension and engagement with your work.

Impact on Reader Comprehension and Engagement

When you incorporate a well-crafted thesis statement and clear claims into your academic writing, you directly influence how readers comprehend and engage with your work. A thesis statement serves as a roadmap, guiding readers through the complexities of your argument. It sets expectations and provides a clear direction for the ensuing discussion. Claims, on the other hand, are the stepping stones that support the overarching thesis , each one a critical component in constructing a compelling narrative.

In the context of academic writing, how to find literature is a fundamental skill that enhances the quality of your claims. By effectively sourcing and integrating relevant literature, you strengthen the credibility of your arguments and foster a deeper level of engagement with your audience. Consider the following points:

• The clarity of your thesis statement can determine the reader's initial interest.
• Each claim should be supported by evidence, which is often found through meticulous literature research.
• The relationship between your thesis and claims can either simplify or complicate the reader's understanding.

Studies have shown that engagement increases when content is perceived as relevant and thoughtfully presented. This is why the precision of your thesis and the substantiation of your claims are pivotal in capturing and maintaining reader interest.

Best Practices for Crafting Effective Thesis Statements and Claims

To excel in academic writing, you must master the art of crafting compelling thesis statements and claims. These elements are the backbone of your argument, guiding your readers through your work. Start by ensuring clarity and conciseness; a well-defined thesis or claim will set a strong foundation for your paper. Develop your thesis or claim with precision , focusing on its ability to drive your argument forward.

Incorporate critical thinking and originality into your thesis and claim construction. Avoid overused topics and strive for a unique angle that reflects your personal insights and research findings. Utilize tools like the Thesis Action Plan and worksheets to structure your thoughts and refine your argument. These resources, often recommended by both students and professors, emphasize the importance of thesis writing in your academic journey.

Finally, remember to revise and refine. Your initial draft is just the beginning; through revision, your thesis and claim will evolve into polished components of your academic discourse. Seek feedback from peers or mentors, and consider utilizing academic support services to enhance the quality of your work.

Understanding the practical implications in academic writing is crucial for scholars and students alike. It's not just about the theory; it's about how you can apply that knowledge to real-world situations. To delve deeper into this subject and to access a wealth of resources that can enhance your writing skills, we invite you to visit our website . Don't let a temporary setback hinder your academic journey. Refresh the page in a couple of minutes, and if the problem persists, our support team is ready to assist you.

In conclusion, the exploration of thesis statements and claims within academic writing has revealed that while they share similarities in their function as guiding assertions, they are not identical. Thesis statements serve as the backbone of an academic paper, providing a clear and comprehensive statement of the main idea and the writer's stance. Claims, on the other hand, are assertions within the body of the text that support the thesis, each requiring its own evidence and elaboration. Understanding the nuanced differences between these two elements is crucial for students and researchers aiming to craft well-structured and persuasive arguments. As we have seen, the effective use of thesis statements and claims can significantly enhance the clarity and impact of scholarly work, ultimately contributing to the advancement of knowledge within various fields of study.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a thesis statement and a claim.

A thesis statement is a sentence that expresses the main idea of a research paper or essay, often presenting an overarching argument or perspective. A claim, on the other hand, is a statement or assertion that supports the thesis and can be argued or debated within the context of the paper.

Can a thesis statement include multiple claims?

Yes, a thesis statement can encompass multiple claims as long as they contribute to establishing the central argument or viewpoint of the paper. These claims are then individually supported and explored throughout the work.

How do I know if my thesis statement is strong enough?

A strong thesis statement should be clear, specific, and arguable. It should convey the main point of your work and be narrow enough to be supported by evidence within the scope of your paper.

Are claims only used in argumentative essays?

While claims are a fundamental component of argumentative essays, they are also used in other types of academic writing, such as expository and analytical essays, to support the thesis and provide evidence for various points of view.

How can I develop a claim from my thesis statement?

To develop a claim from your thesis statement, identify a specific aspect of your thesis that can be explored in detail. Then, formulate a statement that presents a perspective or argument related to that aspect, which you can support with evidence.

What role do thesis statements and claims play in reader engagement?

Thesis statements and claims are crucial for engaging readers as they provide a clear direction for the paper and outline the arguments that will be discussed. They help readers understand the purpose of the writing and what to expect in the following text.

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The Writing Center @ UVa

314 bryan hall, writing theses and claims.

Virtually all genres of academic writing rely to some degree on claims as the engine of arguments, whether as the main point of arguments (the central claim or thesis) or as supporting points (subclaims).

For this reason, writing effective claims is vital to success in academic writing. But what is a claim? How do you distinguish it from other statements. To understand claims, it can be helpful to distinguish them from facts and opinions, as follows.

What is a claim?

• Example: Vanilla ice cream is the highest selling flavor of ice cream in the United States . (This is a fact because it can’t be reasonably argued against. The sales figures are pretty ironclad.)
• Example: Vanilla ice cream is the best flavor of ice cream.  (This is an opinion because it isn’t arguable. It’s based solely in someone’s subjectivity, their preferences.)
• Example: The ubiquity of vanilla ice cream disconnects consumers from the complex and unethical agriculture practices that create it. (This is a claim because it can be argued with, and it can be supported with evidence)

Dispelling some myths about claims

Sometimes, people are given a set of rules about claims that don’t apply in all contexts. Here are some common beliefs about claims that aren’t necessarily true or are perhaps only true in some circumstances.

• NOT NECESSARILY TRUE. This may have been true in high school writing contexts, but in college and beyond different audiences have different expectations for where central claims will be located. Sometimes it’s after a few paragraphs. Sometimes it’s in the middle. Sometimes it’s at the end. At the college level, it’s time to start thinking more rhetorically (meaning thinking about audience expectations and impact) about where the central claim should go.
• NOT NECESSARILY TRUE. You can use a formula, but you don’t have to. And the formula’s you’ve learned previously may only be useful in the specific context you in which you learned them.
• NOT TRUE AT ALL. Central claims differ depending on the genre in which you’re writing. They look different in different disciplines (history, english, psychology, biology), and they look different in genres outside of academia, as well.
• NOT NECESSARILY TRUE. Again, they might be, but as writing becomes more sophisticated and topics more complex, it’s likely that you’ll come up with central or supporting claims that are more than one sentence long. That’s fine, potentially good even.

Two Types of claims

• Example: The University of Virginia should change its admissions practices in an effort to admit more low-income students.
• Example: The University of Virginia’s admissions practices create systemic hurdles to the admission of low-income students.

Two ways of doing claims

• Explicit – a claim that is clearly stated
• Implicit – a claim that is implied

Good claims have 3 features

• Focused – typically, the most specific a claim is the better
• Arguable – someone could reasonably argue against it
• This example is bad because it’s not focused enough. It’s technically a claim, but it’s too broad and not revelatory.
• This claim is better because it’s more focused and as a result more arguable and revelatory.

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• How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on January 11, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on August 15, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . It usually comes near the end of your introduction .

Your thesis will look a bit different depending on the type of essay you’re writing. But the thesis statement should always clearly state the main idea you want to get across. Everything else in your essay should relate back to this idea.

You can write your thesis statement by following four simple steps:

• Start with a question
• Write your initial answer
• Develop your answer
• Refine your thesis statement

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Table of contents

What is a thesis statement, placement of the thesis statement, step 1: start with a question, step 2: write your initial answer, step 3: develop your answer, step 4: refine your thesis statement, types of thesis statements, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis statements.

A thesis statement summarizes the central points of your essay. It is a signpost telling the reader what the essay will argue and why.

The best thesis statements are:

• Concise: A good thesis statement is short and sweet—don’t use more words than necessary. State your point clearly and directly in one or two sentences.
• Contentious: Your thesis shouldn’t be a simple statement of fact that everyone already knows. A good thesis statement is a claim that requires further evidence or analysis to back it up.
• Coherent: Everything mentioned in your thesis statement must be supported and explained in the rest of your paper.

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The thesis statement generally appears at the end of your essay introduction or research paper 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.

You should come up with an initial thesis, sometimes called a working thesis , early in the writing process . As soon as you’ve decided on your essay topic , you need to work out what you want to say about it—a clear thesis will give your essay direction and structure.

You might already have a question in your assignment, but if not, try to come up with your own. What would you like to find out or decide about your topic?

For example, you might ask:

After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process .

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Now you need to consider why this is your answer and how you will convince your reader to agree with you. As you read more about your topic and begin writing, your answer should get more detailed.

In your essay about the internet and education, the thesis states your position and sketches out the key arguments you’ll use to support it.

The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education because it facilitates easier access to information.

In your essay about braille, the thesis statement summarizes the key historical development that you’ll explain.

The invention of braille in the 19th century transformed the lives of blind people, allowing them to participate more actively in public life.

A strong thesis statement should tell the reader:

• Why you hold this position
• What they’ll learn from your essay
• The key points of your argument or narrative

The final thesis statement doesn’t just state your position, but summarizes your overall argument or the entire topic you’re going to explain. To strengthen a weak thesis statement, it can help to consider the broader context of your topic.

These examples are more specific and show that you’ll explore your topic in depth.

Your thesis statement should match the goals of your essay, which vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing:

• In an argumentative essay , your thesis statement should take a strong position. Your aim in the essay is to convince your reader of this thesis based on evidence and logical reasoning.
• In an expository essay , you’ll aim to explain the facts of a topic or process. Your thesis statement doesn’t have to include a strong opinion in this case, but it should clearly state the central point you want to make, and mention the key elements you’ll explain.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

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A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

• Ask a question about your topic .
• Write your initial answer.
• Develop your answer by including reasons.
• Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

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Introduction

A good thesis statement should:.

• Convey the topic and opinion of the essay, as well as the subjects and examples that will be discussed (see Jerz's Topic, Opinion, Blueprint model below)
• Be approximately 1-2 sentences long, and included in the essay's introductory paragraph

Meme Generator

What is a Blueprint?

A blueprint is simply a set of subtopics that you plan to discuss throughout your essay, likely the subjects of each individual paragraph. 

Here's a tip!

Although we start writing with a general idea of what our thesis will be, it's always helpful to draft the entire essay and then go back and revise your thesis to reflect how your argument really progressed. Revising your thesis after writing a first draft also helps you with your final revision. You will better identify "fluff," places where you go off-topic, as well as ideas that may need further clarification. 

How To Write a Killer Thesis Statement

Bad vs. Good Thesis Statements

Bad thesis statements have:.

• Nothing to argue
• No hint about where they’re headed
• No focus, they’re too broad
• A long list of information

Good Thesis Statements Have:

• A clear point of view
• A detailed blueprint about where the essay is headed
• Clear and concise form

Ways To Improve

Your thesis takes a position that others might challenge

• Your thesis statement is specific

If the reader can ask the questions, "So What?" "How?" or "Why?", then you might need to clarify your thesis.

Example Thesis Statements

In his work “Plagiarism is Not a Big Moral Deal,” Fish discusses how plagiarism should be treated in an academic atmosphere, due to the fact that it is often rooted in misunderstanding, a lack of originality, and the exclusivity of academic circles.

This thesis has a topic and blueprint, but is missing an opinion.

In his work, “Plagiarism Is Not a Big Moral Deal,” Fish discusses how plagiarism should not be treated as a moral or philosophical issue, due to the fact that it is often rooted in misunderstanding of the complex rules, a lack of originality as a concept, and the exclusivity of academic circles.

Explanation

This thesis is better because it includes all of the following:

Topic : A discussion of how plagiarism should be treated in an academic atmosphere.

Opinion : Plagiarism is not an issue of morality but rather professionalism.

Blueprint : He argues that plagiarism is often caused by misunderstanding without malicious intent, lack of originality as a concept, and overly complicated rules and systems taught to a few in academic circles. 

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes include:.

1. Lack of focus and specificity 

2. Jargon (word choice that is exclusive/ hard to understand)

3. Treating your thesis statement like a topic sentence

4. Not adequately representing your claim

Difference Between a Thesis and a Topic Sentence

Thesis statements are 1-2 sentences that assert your opinion and what will be said throughout the entire essay . 

Topic sentences introduce the discussion to follow in a specific paragrap h .  Each must be general enough to express the paragraph’s overall subject, but also specific enough that the reader knows where the paragraph is going. For more information, see Rams Write: Topic Sentences .

Thesis Sentence vs. Topic

Sparknotes: "Thesis Machine Strategy"

The “thesis machine”.

This is a technique my first writing professor taught me. It’s a reliable jumping off point for when you’re just trying to get a thesis down. The pattern’s simple—here’s an example:

Topic: Hufflepuffs

Topic + Position: Hufflepuffs make the best friends

Topic + Position + Rationale  (Think of this as the “because” step): Hufflepuffs make the best friends because they are accepting and loyal.

Topic + Position + Rationale + Qualification  (The “although” step): Although they are often overlooked and considered oddballs, Hufflepuffs make the best friends because of their deep-seated values of loyalty, dedication, and acceptance, all crucial traits in any friendship.

General Guideline for Theses

Jerz's Literary Weblog  offers general guidelines for brainstorming your thesis.

This page was created by/ MLA Citations

Kirsten LaCroix, Framingham State U, Class of 2022

Bri Hibbert, Framingham State U, Class of 2022

Spring 2019

Julia Coolidge, Framingham State U, Class of 2022 

Sarah Wheeler, Framingham State U, Class of 2021

Works Cited

"Developing Your Thesis."  Odegaard Writing and Research Center,  2018,  depts.washington.edu/owrc/Handouts/Developing%20Your%20Thesis.pdf .

Harrogate, Kurt. "How to Write a Killer Thesis Statement." Sparknotes Blog , 17 March 2017,  www.sparknotes.com/blog/2017/03/17/how-to-write-a-killer-thesis-statement/ . 

"How to Write a Killer Thesis Statement by Shmoop."  Youtube,  uploaded by Shmoop, 6 September 2013,  www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wxE8R_x5I0 . 

Jerz, Dennis G. and Jordan, Nicci. "Blueprinting: Using the Thesis Paragraph to Plan Your Essay."  Jerz’s Literacy Weblog,  10 June 2015,  jerz.setonhill.edu/writing/academic1/blueprinting-using-the-thesis-paragraph-to-plan-your-essay/ . 

Meme Generator: Create Your Own Meme.  Meme Generator, 2019,  memegenerator.net . 

"Thesis Statements." The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,  2018,  writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/thesis-statements/ .

"Thesis Statement vs. Topic Sentence by Shmoop."  YouTube,  uploaded by Shmoop, 16 July 2013,  www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=236&v=Nx2-PcBzZjo . 

"Writing Tips: Thesis Statements."  University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Center for Writing Students,  2013,  www.cws.illinois.edu/workshop/writers/tips/thesis/ .

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Thesis Statements

What this handout is about.

This handout describes what a thesis statement is, how thesis statements work in your writing, and how you can craft or refine one for your draft.

Introduction

Writing in college often takes the form of persuasion—convincing others that you have an interesting, logical point of view on the subject you are studying. Persuasion is a skill you practice regularly in your daily life. You persuade your roommate to clean up, your parents to let you borrow the car, your friend to vote for your favorite candidate or policy. In college, course assignments often ask you to make a persuasive case in writing. You are asked to convince your reader of your point of view. This form of persuasion, often called academic argument, follows a predictable pattern in writing. After a brief introduction of your topic, you state your point of view on the topic directly and often in one sentence. This sentence is the thesis statement, and it serves as a summary of the argument you’ll make in the rest of your paper.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement:

• tells the reader how you will interpret the significance of the subject matter under discussion.
• is a road map for the paper; in other words, it tells the reader what to expect from the rest of the paper.
• directly answers the question asked of you. A thesis is an interpretation of a question or subject, not the subject itself. The subject, or topic, of an essay might be World War II or Moby Dick; a thesis must then offer a way to understand the war or the novel.
• makes a claim that others might dispute.
• is usually a single sentence near the beginning of your paper (most often, at the end of the first paragraph) that presents your argument to the reader. The rest of the paper, the body of the essay, gathers and organizes evidence that will persuade the reader of the logic of your interpretation.

If your assignment asks you to take a position or develop a claim about a subject, you may need to convey that position or claim in a thesis statement near the beginning of your draft. The assignment may not explicitly state that you need a thesis statement because your instructor may assume you will include one. When in doubt, ask your instructor if the assignment requires a thesis statement. When an assignment asks you to analyze, to interpret, to compare and contrast, to demonstrate cause and effect, or to take a stand on an issue, it is likely that you are being asked to develop a thesis and to support it persuasively. (Check out our handout on understanding assignments for more information.)

How do I create a thesis?

A thesis is the result of a lengthy thinking process. Formulating a thesis is not the first thing you do after reading an essay assignment. Before you develop an argument on any topic, you have to collect and organize evidence, look for possible relationships between known facts (such as surprising contrasts or similarities), and think about the significance of these relationships. Once you do this thinking, you will probably have a “working thesis” that presents a basic or main idea and an argument that you think you can support with evidence. Both the argument and your thesis are likely to need adjustment along the way.

Writers use all kinds of techniques to stimulate their thinking and to help them clarify relationships or comprehend the broader significance of a topic and arrive at a thesis statement. For more ideas on how to get started, see our handout on brainstorming .

How do I know if my thesis is strong?

If there’s time, run it by your instructor or make an appointment at the Writing Center to get some feedback. Even if you do not have time to get advice elsewhere, you can do some thesis evaluation of your own. When reviewing your first draft and its working thesis, ask yourself the following :

• Do I answer the question? Re-reading the question prompt after constructing a working thesis can help you fix an argument that misses the focus of the question. If the prompt isn’t phrased as a question, try to rephrase it. For example, “Discuss the effect of X on Y” can be rephrased as “What is the effect of X on Y?”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? If your thesis simply states facts that no one would, or even could, disagree with, it’s possible that you are simply providing a summary, rather than making an argument.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? Thesis statements that are too vague often do not have a strong argument. If your thesis contains words like “good” or “successful,” see if you could be more specific: why is something “good”; what specifically makes something “successful”?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? If a reader’s first response is likely to  be “So what?” then you need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue.
• Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. It’s okay to change your working thesis to reflect things you have figured out in the course of writing your paper. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? If a reader’s first response is “how?” or “why?” your thesis may be too open-ended and lack guidance for the reader. See what you can add to give the reader a better take on your position right from the beginning.

Suppose you are taking a course on contemporary communication, and the instructor hands out the following essay assignment: “Discuss the impact of social media on public awareness.” Looking back at your notes, you might start with this working thesis:

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.

• Do I answer the question? You can analyze this if you rephrase “discuss the impact” as “what is the impact?” This way, you can see that you’ve answered the question only very generally with the vague “positive and negative ways.”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not likely. Only people who maintain that social media has a solely positive or solely negative impact could disagree.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? No. What are the positive effects? What are the negative effects?
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? No. Why are they positive? How are they positive? What are their causes? Why are they negative? How are they negative? What are their causes?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? No. Why should anyone care about the positive and/or negative impact of social media?

After thinking about your answers to these questions, you decide to focus on the one impact you feel strongly about and have strong evidence for:

Because not every voice on social media is reliable, people have become much more critical consumers of information, and thus, more informed voters.

This version is a much stronger thesis! It answers the question, takes a specific position that others can challenge, and it gives a sense of why it matters.

Let’s try another. Suppose your literature professor hands out the following assignment in a class on the American novel: Write an analysis of some aspect of Mark Twain’s novel Huckleberry Finn. “This will be easy,” you think. “I loved Huckleberry Finn!” You grab a pad of paper and write:

Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn is a great American novel.

You begin to analyze your thesis:

• Do I answer the question? No. The prompt asks you to analyze some aspect of the novel. Your working thesis is a statement of general appreciation for the entire novel.

Think about aspects of the novel that are important to its structure or meaning—for example, the role of storytelling, the contrasting scenes between the shore and the river, or the relationships between adults and children. Now you write:

In Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain develops a contrast between life on the river and life on the shore.

• Do I answer the question? Yes!
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not really. This contrast is well-known and accepted.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? It’s getting there–you have highlighted an important aspect of the novel for investigation. However, it’s still not clear what your analysis will reveal.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? Not yet. Compare scenes from the book and see what you discover. Free write, make lists, jot down Huck’s actions and reactions and anything else that seems interesting.
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? What’s the point of this contrast? What does it signify?”

After examining the evidence and considering your own insights, you write:

Through its contrasting river and shore scenes, Twain’s Huckleberry Finn suggests that to find the true expression of American democratic ideals, one must leave “civilized” society and go back to nature.

This final thesis statement presents an interpretation of a literary work based on an analysis of its content. Of course, for the essay itself to be successful, you must now present evidence from the novel that will convince the reader of your interpretation.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Anson, Chris M., and Robert A. Schwegler. 2010. The Longman Handbook for Writers and Readers , 6th ed. New York: Longman.

Lunsford, Andrea A. 2015. The St. Martin’s Handbook , 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St Martin’s.

Ramage, John D., John C. Bean, and June Johnson. 2018. The Allyn & Bacon Guide to Writing , 8th ed. New York: Pearson.

Ruszkiewicz, John J., Christy Friend, Daniel Seward, and Maxine Hairston. 2010. The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers , 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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What is a claim?

A claim is a statement that presents an idea or series of ideas as arguments. Arguments therefore consist of claims, or another way to put it is, to say that claims are the building blocks of a good argument.

In research writing, claims will be the backbone that form a thesis or a hypothesis (here the term ‘hypothesis’ refers to the argument that is evidenced within the scope of the work).

According to Heady (2013) “Claims are the points you want to prove, interpretations you want to offer, and assertions you want to make” (p. 74). Importantly, in academia claims are statements that can be supported by evidence.

‘Traditional classroom teaching is boring’

For example, claiming that traditional classroom teaching is boring is not a good claim because it lacks definition (what does ‘traditional classroom teaching’ actually mean? and how do we measure ‘boring’)? It may also be a ‘sweeping statement’ (meaning it’s far too general in scope). However, claiming that “traditional teaching methods, like didactic instruction, do not provide sufficient interaction with students and lead to poor learning outcomes” is a good argumentative claim, because it can be investigated and measured.

Characteristics of a good claim

In order to make effective claims it is important to understand the difference between statements  and  sentences. While a statement is also a sentence (in that it is a grammatical unit with subject, verb, object clause), not all sentences are statements (in other words, not all sentences consist of a stance or a position).

The following provides examples of the difference between sentences and statements. The statements present a stance or position about the topic under discussion. This is important to understand as all claims must consist of a stance towards the topic.

Function of claims

The function of claims in academic writing is to provoke, analyse, or interpret rather than merely describe or present facts. They can do this by affirming, acknowledging, confirming, or refuting the proposition being made. In this way, claims do the job of building an overall argument or thesis in a piece of work (i.e. each claim progresses the key argument). It is for this reason that claims will appear in topic sentences, thesis statements, introductory and concluding sentences/paragraphs.

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Research and Writing Skills for Academic and Graduate Researchers Copyright © 2022 by RMIT University is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Is a Thesis the same as a Claim: How to Write Each

Comparing Thesis and a Claim

A thesis is a statement that carries the main idea of an essay, paper, or piece of writing to help the writer control the ideas within the paper. It reflects the main argument or point of the writer on a particular topic.

A claim is the beginning or end of an argument that needs to be supported with proper evidence and reasoning. This is because the audience to whom the claim is relayed can challenge it, and therefore, the argument made by the claim must stand.

Is a Thesis the same as a Claim?

Thesis statements are not necessarily claims, but they can be used as claims. For example, a thesis is the main argument in writing, while claims are the points that can be accrued from that statement.

Therefore, the thesis must be in the introductory part of ant piece of writing. Everything that you include in that writing must reflect back to the thesis statement. Backing the argument is what brings up a claim.

Therefore, claims are topic sentences that include the argument that backs the thesis.

They are a sneak peek of what you will include in your essay paragraphs and must be supported by factual information to bring out relevance.

However, a thesis statement can be a claim in argumentative papers . When you are arguing against something, you make a claim that you are supposed to back in the rest of the writing.

The statement is a claim because it should demonstrate the value, policy, facts, and examples that are recent, accurate, and reliable. Therefore, one can refer to a thesis statement as a main claim that sets up the way for other minor claims that support it.

These claims help build a well-rounded argument in the essay by showing that you have considered many possible positions to support your topic.

How to write a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement must be included in essays to provide the reader with a guide of your arguments and opinions in the essay and help you organize and develop your arguments.

A good thesis statement must be coherent, concise, and contentious. It should appear as the last part of the introduction of an essay or research paper.

There are four steps that one should follow when writing a thesis statement:

1. Start with a Question

To write a thesis statement, you need to come up with a question about what you want to find out about the topic you are writing about.

This question is like the initial thesis, which can be referred to as a working thesis because you are in the early stages of the writing process. The question should be based on what you want to say about the topic.

2. Write the Answer to the Question

After identifying the main question that should be asked about the topic, answer the question in detail. The answer to this question is what provides the root that your essay or research paper will follow.

Make the answer simple to ensure that you do not complicate your views. For example, if the question was on what are the effects of the internet on education, you can come up with an answer such as the internet has more negative effects on education today compared to its positive impacts.

3. Develop the Answer

After getting the answer, it is now time to consider why it effectively answers your essay question and how it will help you convince the reader that the arguments you will make in the essay are valid.

To do this, you need to research more so that when you begin to write, the answer will be provided and focused on extensively.

The answer you come up with should also effectively portray the position you have taken in the essay and sketch out the arguments that you will use to support it throughout the essay.

4. Refine the Thesis Statement

This is all about making sure that your thesis statement is strong enough.

Therefore, you must ensure that it tells the readers why you hold the position you have taken about the essay topic, what they will learn after going through your writing, and the key points of your argument or narrative that will be focused on in the essay.

A good thesis statement is not all about stating your position on the essay topic but also summarizing your overall argument on that particular topic. Considering this moves your thesis from weak to strong.

5. Make it Specific

The thesis statement should be straight to the point. Anything that will not be discussed in the essay should not be involved, and only specific evidence should be used to support it.

The language should also be specific. This means that the thesis statement should not report a statistic or a fact but make an assertion.

How to Write Claims

Claim statements in an essay or research paper must be arguable but should be stated as facts. This means that they should be debatable but at the same time show inquiry and evidence.

A claim cannot be a personal feeling or opinion about something. It must be something that is supportable using factual arguments. Therefore, a claim must be specific to assert a focused argument.

Also, claims define the goals, scope, and direction that your paragraphs will take. To write a good claim statement, you should:

Come up with a Strong Argument

A claim must be an argument that is in favor or against the topic of study. This argument should be supported by sufficient evidence to convince the reader that it is valid.

The Claim Should be Stated as a Fact

The claim must look as a fact to the reader. For example, the sentence ‘incarceration of juvenile delinquents is illegal’ is not a claim.

Instead, incarceration of juvenile delinquents is no longer an appropriate punishment in America’ is a factual claim.

The Claim Should be Straight to the Point

When a claim is direct, it shows you all the aspects that you will need to tackle. If it involves a lot of information, you are likely to make a vague argument that may not make sense or convince the reader.

James Lotta

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Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements

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Tips for Writing Your Thesis Statement

1. Determine what kind of paper you are writing:

• An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
• An expository (explanatory) paper explains something to the audience.
• An argumentative paper makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, a cause-and-effect statement, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that the claim is true based on the evidence provided.

If you are writing a text that does not fall under these three categories (e.g., a narrative), a thesis statement somewhere in the first paragraph could still be helpful to your reader.

2. Your thesis statement should be specific—it should cover only what you will discuss in your paper and should be supported with specific evidence.

3. The thesis statement usually appears at the end of the first paragraph of a paper.

4. Your topic may change as you write, so you may need to revise your thesis statement to reflect exactly what you have discussed in the paper.

Thesis Statement Examples

Example of an analytical thesis statement:

The paper that follows should:

• Explain the analysis of the college admission process
• Explain the challenge facing admissions counselors

Example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement:

• Explain how students spend their time studying, attending class, and socializing with peers

Example of an argumentative thesis statement:

• Present an argument and give evidence to support the claim that students should pursue community projects before entering college

While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.

This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.  

Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence) 

Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.

This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.  

Arguable thesis with analytical claim 

While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.

This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.  

Arguable thesis with normative claim 

Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.

This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.  

Questions to ask about your thesis 

• Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?  
• Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?  
• Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?  
• Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?  
• Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
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Answered By: APUS Librarians Last Updated: Jan 02, 2020     Views: 81187

A thesis statement is a short, concise sentence or paragraph that summarizes the main point of an essay or research paper. In a thesis statement, the author is making a specific claim or assertion about a topic that can be debated or challenged. This claim will be developed, supported, and explained in the body of the paper by means of examples and evidence.

Example of weak thesis statement:

• Ursula K. Le Guin is one of the best American authors in the last half century.

Example of a strong thesis statement:

• Ursula K. Le Guin's ability to subvert cultural and social expectations makes her one of the best authors of the last century.

A research question indicates the direction of your research. It is an open-ended query, not a final claim or conclusion about an idea. A good research question should act as the focus of a study. It helps the author decide on the methodology she will use as well as guide all subsequent stages of inquiry, analysis, and reporting.

Example of a weak research question:

• How does science fiction literature affect our understanding of other cultures?

Example of a strong research question:

• Can science fiction literature that focuses on fundamental issues such as gender and race deepen our ability to empathize with cultures different from our own?

These links will provide you with more information.

The Research Question and Hypothesis | PDF file [Ryerson University]

What Makes a Good Research Question? | PDF file [Duke University]

Links & Files

• My professor says I need a better thesis statement. How do I fix it?
• How do I write a good hypothesis statement for my research paper?
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