How do I write a thesis statement?
Answer
What is a thesis statement?
A thesis statement is one or two sentences that sums up the main idea of your paper. A good thesis statement will tell your reader what idea or argument your paper will address. For example, if you are writing an argumentative paper, your thesis statement will state your argumentative topic and your specific stance on that topic.
How do I create a thesis?
You will craft your thesis after reading your assignment instructions and doing research on your topic. As you research, you will learn more about your topic and decide what you want to say about it in your paper. Once you make that decision, you can begin develop your thesis statement.
How do I make my thesis more detailed?
Your first thesis might be general in nature. For example, you might write a thesis statement such as:
Misinformation impacts public health in negative ways.
Think deeply about your thesis and what information it really provides about your stance. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Is this specific enough? No, it is not. What kind of misinformation? What audiences or negative effects?
- Can others challenge or oppose this thesis? No, and this is not a good thing. A general audience can hardly argue this blanket statement until we provide more detail.
- Does the thesis answer 'how' or 'why?' No, this thesis does not answer either of those questions.
- Does the thesis answer 'so what?' No, this thesis does not explain why the reader should care about this issue.
Let's try a more detailed thesis statement:
Because of social media Influencers who create popular content about health supplements with no scientific evidence, misinformation about supplement safety has become an increasing concern for public health.
Now, ask the same questions about this thesis statement:
- Is this specific enough? Yes, they reader knows that you will discuss the spread of misinformation through social media via Influencers. This specifies supplements specifically.
- Can others challenge or oppose this thesis? Yes, someone may oppose this viewpoint, leaving room for the paper to persuade the audience with valid research.
- Does the thesis answer 'how' or 'why?' Yes, this thesis answers how public health is threatened.
- Does the thesis answer 'so what?' Yes, this thesis states that sharing information with no scientific evidence threatens public health.
A detailed thesis statement makes a huge difference, and it helps you stay on track with your research and writing.
If you need help drafting your thesis statement, reach out to your Instructor or check out our Tutoring Center.