Thesis statements
EnglishDefinition
A thesis statement is a single sentence, usually at the end of the introduction, that presents the main argument or central claim of an essay. It acts as a roadmap telling the reader exactly what the essay will argue and, often, how it will be organized.
Examples
- 'While both candidates promised economic reform, only one offered a plan grounded in evidence-based policy.' — a compare/contrast thesis
- 'The school district should adopt later start times because research shows they improve attendance, grades, and mental health.' — an argumentative thesis with three supporting reasons
- 'Through its unreliable narrator, Gone Girl critiques society's obsession with performative marriage.' — a literary analysis thesis
Key Fact
A thesis should be arguable (not a fact), specific (not vague), and supportable (with available evidence).
Study This Concept
Practice thesis statements with free review games in these units: