What
is a thesis statement? It is the most important sentence
in your paper!
a one-sentence guide for your readers
to what you will prove in your research paper.
an opinion statement for which you
will present supporting evidence.
a clear expression of YOUR viewpoint,
which must be a claim that others might dispute.
How do I create a thesis statement?
Choose an issue you'd
like to explore.
Read, read, read about
your topic! Whatever you do, don't skip this step!
It will not only save you time, but it will also prevent
disaster later on.
Brainstorm your ideas
about the topic.
Write a few questions
you might want to answer in your research paper.
Compose a few complete
sentences that answer the questions.
The "Even though...nevertheless...because"
formula:
Here is a formula for drafting a thesis
statement, using three key words:
Even though (or although)
- states the main argument AGAINST your opinion
nevertheless - tells
your basic position on the topic (consider using the
word "should" for this part)
because - states the
strongest evidence that SUPPORTS your opinion
Here are two examples, each taking a different
side of the capital punishment controversy:
Although victims'
families might like to have revenge, nevertheless,
capital punishment should be abolished because
life in prison without parole is less expensive and
makes the criminal face his guilt longer.
Although it doesn't
deter other criminals, nevertheless,
we need capital punishment because
each execution makes it certain that one murderer
will not kill again.
How do I know if I have a good thesis
statement? If you can answer "yes" to the
first two questions and "no" to the last one.
Does your thesis statement take a
stand on an issue?
Could a reasonable person disagree
with your statement?
Would a reasonable person respond "So
what?" or "Who cares?" to your thesis
statement?
Extra Help
What
is a thesis? Here is all the help you'll need
to create a great thesis statement for your research
paper!
Thesis
Builder An online, user-friendly (and fun)
tool to create a thesis and outline. Before you use
Thesis Builder, you will need to have ready:
a topic
opinions about the topic
some reasons for your opinion and why
other people might disagree.
What
is a thesis statement? It is the most important sentence
in your paper!