education essay thesis statement

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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How to write a thesis statement + examples

What is a thesis statement?

Is a thesis statement a question, how do you write a good thesis statement, how do i know if my thesis statement is good, examples of thesis statements, helpful resources on how to write a thesis statement, frequently asked questions about writing a thesis statement, related articles.

A thesis statement is the main argument of your paper or thesis.

The thesis statement is one of the most important elements of any piece of academic writing . It is a brief statement of your paper’s main argument. Essentially, you are stating what you will be writing about.

You can see your thesis statement as an answer to a question. While it also contains the question, it should really give an answer to the question with new information and not just restate or reiterate it.

Your thesis statement is part of your introduction. Learn more about how to write a good thesis introduction in our introduction guide .

A thesis statement is not a question. A statement must be arguable and provable through evidence and analysis. While your thesis might stem from a research question, it should be in the form of a statement.

Tip: A thesis statement is typically 1-2 sentences. For a longer project like a thesis, the statement may be several sentences or a paragraph.

A good thesis statement needs to do the following:

• Condense the main idea of your thesis into one or two sentences.
• Answer your project’s main research question.
• Clearly state your position in relation to the topic .
• Make an argument that requires support or evidence.

Once you have written down a thesis statement, check if it fulfills the following criteria:

• Your statement needs to be provable by evidence. As an argument, a thesis statement needs to be debatable.
• Your statement needs to be precise. Do not give away too much information in the thesis statement and do not load it with unnecessary information.
• Your statement cannot say that one solution is simply right or simply wrong as a matter of fact. You should draw upon verified facts to persuade the reader of your solution, but you cannot just declare something as right or wrong.

As previously mentioned, your thesis statement should answer a question.

If the question is:

What do you think the City of New York should do to reduce traffic congestion?

A good thesis statement restates the question and answers it:

In this paper, I will argue that the City of New York should focus on providing exclusive lanes for public transport and adaptive traffic signals to reduce traffic congestion by the year 2035.

Here is another example. If the question is:

How can we end poverty?

A good thesis statement should give more than one solution to the problem in question:

In this paper, I will argue that introducing universal basic income can help reduce poverty and positively impact the way we work.

• The Writing Center of the University of North Carolina has a list of questions to ask to see if your thesis is strong .

A thesis statement is part of the introduction of your paper. It is usually found in the first or second paragraph to let the reader know your research purpose from the beginning.

In general, a thesis statement should have one or two sentences. But the length really depends on the overall length of your project. Take a look at our guide about the length of thesis statements for more insight on this topic.

Here is a list of Thesis Statement Examples that will help you understand better how to write them.

Every good essay should include a thesis statement as part of its introduction, no matter the academic level. Of course, if you are a high school student you are not expected to have the same type of thesis as a PhD student.

Here is a great YouTube tutorial showing How To Write An Essay: Thesis Statements .

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?
• picture_as_pdf Thesis

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Writing a Paper: Thesis Statements

Basics of thesis statements.

The thesis statement is the brief articulation of your paper's central argument and purpose. You might hear it referred to as simply a "thesis." Every scholarly paper should have a thesis statement, and strong thesis statements are concise, specific, and arguable. Concise means the thesis is short: perhaps one or two sentences for a shorter paper. Specific means the thesis deals with a narrow and focused topic, appropriate to the paper's length. Arguable means that a scholar in your field could disagree (or perhaps already has!).

Strong thesis statements address specific intellectual questions, have clear positions, and use a structure that reflects the overall structure of the paper. Read on to learn more about constructing a strong thesis statement.

Being Specific

This thesis statement has no specific argument:

Needs Improvement: In this essay, I will examine two scholarly articles to find similarities and differences.

This statement is concise, but it is neither specific nor arguable—a reader might wonder, "Which scholarly articles? What is the topic of this paper? What field is the author writing in?" Additionally, the purpose of the paper—to "examine…to find similarities and differences" is not of a scholarly level. Identifying similarities and differences is a good first step, but strong academic argument goes further, analyzing what those similarities and differences might mean or imply.

Better: In this essay, I will argue that Bowler's (2003) autocratic management style, when coupled with Smith's (2007) theory of social cognition, can reduce the expenses associated with employee turnover.

The new revision here is still concise, as well as specific and arguable.  We can see that it is specific because the writer is mentioning (a) concrete ideas and (b) exact authors.  We can also gather the field (business) and the topic (management and employee turnover). The statement is arguable because the student goes beyond merely comparing; he or she draws conclusions from that comparison ("can reduce the expenses associated with employee turnover").

Making a Unique Argument

This thesis draft repeats the language of the writing prompt without making a unique argument:

Needs Improvement: The purpose of this essay is to monitor, assess, and evaluate an educational program for its strengths and weaknesses. Then, I will provide suggestions for improvement.

You can see here that the student has simply stated the paper's assignment, without articulating specifically how he or she will address it. The student can correct this error simply by phrasing the thesis statement as a specific answer to the assignment prompt.

Better: Through a series of student interviews, I found that Kennedy High School's antibullying program was ineffective. In order to address issues of conflict between students, I argue that Kennedy High School should embrace policies outlined by the California Department of Education (2010).

Words like "ineffective" and "argue" show here that the student has clearly thought through the assignment and analyzed the material; he or she is putting forth a specific and debatable position. The concrete information ("student interviews," "antibullying") further prepares the reader for the body of the paper and demonstrates how the student has addressed the assignment prompt without just restating that language.

Creating a Debate

This thesis statement includes only obvious fact or plot summary instead of argument:

Needs Improvement: Leadership is an important quality in nurse educators.

A good strategy to determine if your thesis statement is too broad (and therefore, not arguable) is to ask yourself, "Would a scholar in my field disagree with this point?" Here, we can see easily that no scholar is likely to argue that leadership is an unimportant quality in nurse educators.  The student needs to come up with a more arguable claim, and probably a narrower one; remember that a short paper needs a more focused topic than a dissertation.

Better: Roderick's (2009) theory of participatory leadership  is particularly appropriate to nurse educators working within the emergency medicine field, where students benefit most from collegial and kinesthetic learning.

Here, the student has identified a particular type of leadership ("participatory leadership"), narrowing the topic, and has made an arguable claim (this type of leadership is "appropriate" to a specific type of nurse educator). Conceivably, a scholar in the nursing field might disagree with this approach. The student's paper can now proceed, providing specific pieces of evidence to support the arguable central claim.

Choosing the Right Words

This thesis statement uses large or scholarly-sounding words that have no real substance:

Needs Improvement: Scholars should work to seize metacognitive outcomes by harnessing discipline-based networks to empower collaborative infrastructures.

There are many words in this sentence that may be buzzwords in the student's field or key terms taken from other texts, but together they do not communicate a clear, specific meaning. Sometimes students think scholarly writing means constructing complex sentences using special language, but actually it's usually a stronger choice to write clear, simple sentences. When in doubt, remember that your ideas should be complex, not your sentence structure.

Better: Ecologists should work to educate the U.S. public on conservation methods by making use of local and national green organizations to create a widespread communication plan.

Notice in the revision that the field is now clear (ecology), and the language has been made much more field-specific ("conservation methods," "green organizations"), so the reader is able to see concretely the ideas the student is communicating.

Leaving Room for Discussion

This thesis statement is not capable of development or advancement in the paper:

Needs Improvement: There are always alternatives to illegal drug use.

This sample thesis statement makes a claim, but it is not a claim that will sustain extended discussion. This claim is the type of claim that might be appropriate for the conclusion of a paper, but in the beginning of the paper, the student is left with nowhere to go. What further points can be made? If there are "always alternatives" to the problem the student is identifying, then why bother developing a paper around that claim? Ideally, a thesis statement should be complex enough to explore over the length of the entire paper.

Better: The most effective treatment plan for methamphetamine addiction may be a combination of pharmacological and cognitive therapy, as argued by Baker (2008), Smith (2009), and Xavier (2011).

In the revised thesis, you can see the student make a specific, debatable claim that has the potential to generate several pages' worth of discussion. When drafting a thesis statement, think about the questions your thesis statement will generate: What follow-up inquiries might a reader have? In the first example, there are almost no additional questions implied, but the revised example allows for a good deal more exploration.

Thesis Mad Libs

If you are having trouble getting started, try using the models below to generate a rough model of a thesis statement! These models are intended for drafting purposes only and should not appear in your final work.

• In this essay, I argue ____, using ______ to assert _____.
• While scholars have often argued ______, I argue______, because_______.
• Through an analysis of ______, I argue ______, which is important because_______.

Words to Avoid and to Embrace

When drafting your thesis statement, avoid words like explore, investigate, learn, compile, summarize , and explain to describe the main purpose of your paper. These words imply a paper that summarizes or "reports," rather than synthesizing and analyzing.

Instead of the terms above, try words like argue, critique, question , and interrogate . These more analytical words may help you begin strongly, by articulating a specific, critical, scholarly position.

Read Kayla's blog post for tips on taking a stand in a well-crafted thesis statement.

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How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement: 4 Steps + Examples

What’s Covered:

What is the purpose of a thesis statement, writing a good thesis statement: 4 steps, common pitfalls to avoid, where to get your essay edited for free.

When you set out to write an essay, there has to be some kind of point to it, right? Otherwise, your essay would just be a big jumble of word salad that makes absolutely no sense. An essay needs a central point that ties into everything else. That main point is called a thesis statement, and it’s the core of any essay or research paper.

You may hear about Master degree candidates writing a thesis, and that is an entire paper–not to be confused with the thesis statement, which is typically one sentence that contains your paper’s focus. 

Read on to learn more about thesis statements and how to write them. We’ve also included some solid examples for you to reference.

Typically the last sentence of your introductory paragraph, the thesis statement serves as the roadmap for your essay. When your reader gets to the thesis statement, they should have a clear outline of your main point, as well as the information you’ll be presenting in order to either prove or support your point. 

The thesis statement should not be confused for a topic sentence , which is the first sentence of every paragraph in your essay. If you need help writing topic sentences, numerous resources are available. Topic sentences should go along with your thesis statement, though.

Since the thesis statement is the most important sentence of your entire essay or paper, it’s imperative that you get this part right. Otherwise, your paper will not have a good flow and will seem disjointed. That’s why it’s vital not to rush through developing one. It’s a methodical process with steps that you need to follow in order to create the best thesis statement possible.

Step 1: Decide what kind of paper you’re writing

When you’re assigned an essay, there are several different types you may get. Argumentative essays are designed to get the reader to agree with you on a topic. Informative or expository essays present information to the reader. Analytical essays offer up a point and then expand on it by analyzing relevant information. Thesis statements can look and sound different based on the type of paper you’re writing. For example:

• Argumentative: The United States needs a viable third political party to decrease bipartisanship, increase options, and help reduce corruption in government.
• Informative: The Libertarian party has thrown off elections before by gaining enough support in states to get on the ballot and by taking away crucial votes from candidates.
• Analytical: An analysis of past presidential elections shows that while third party votes may have been the minority, they did affect the outcome of the elections in 2020, 2016, and beyond.

Step 2: Figure out what point you want to make

Once you know what type of paper you’re writing, you then need to figure out the point you want to make with your thesis statement, and subsequently, your paper. In other words, you need to decide to answer a question about something, such as:

• What impact did reality TV have on American society?
• How has the musical Hamilton affected perception of American history?
• Why do I want to major in [chosen major here]?

If you have an argumentative essay, then you will be writing about an opinion. To make it easier, you may want to choose an opinion that you feel passionate about so that you’re writing about something that interests you. For example, if you have an interest in preserving the environment, you may want to choose a topic that relates to that. 

If you’re writing your college essay and they ask why you want to attend that school, you may want to have a main point and back it up with information, something along the lines of:

“Attending Harvard University would benefit me both academically and professionally, as it would give me a strong knowledge base upon which to build my career, develop my network, and hopefully give me an advantage in my chosen field.”

Step 3: Determine what information you’ll use to back up your point

Once you have the point you want to make, you need to figure out how you plan to back it up throughout the rest of your essay. Without this information, it will be hard to either prove or argue the main point of your thesis statement. If you decide to write about the Hamilton example, you may decide to address any falsehoods that the writer put into the musical, such as:

“The musical Hamilton, while accurate in many ways, leaves out key parts of American history, presents a nationalist view of founding fathers, and downplays the racism of the times.”

Once you’ve written your initial working thesis statement, you’ll then need to get information to back that up. For example, the musical completely leaves out Benjamin Franklin, portrays the founding fathers in a nationalist way that is too complimentary, and shows Hamilton as a staunch abolitionist despite the fact that his family likely did own slaves. 

Step 4: Revise and refine your thesis statement before you start writing

Read through your thesis statement several times before you begin to compose your full essay. You need to make sure the statement is ironclad, since it is the foundation of the entire paper. Edit it or have a peer review it for you to make sure everything makes sense and that you feel like you can truly write a paper on the topic. Once you’ve done that, you can then begin writing your paper.

When writing a thesis statement, there are some common pitfalls you should avoid so that your paper can be as solid as possible. Make sure you always edit the thesis statement before you do anything else. You also want to ensure that the thesis statement is clear and concise. Don’t make your reader hunt for your point. Finally, put your thesis statement at the end of the first paragraph and have your introduction flow toward that statement. Your reader will expect to find your statement in its traditional spot.

If you’re having trouble getting started, or need some guidance on your essay, there are tools available that can help you. CollegeVine offers a free peer essay review tool where one of your peers can read through your essay and provide you with valuable feedback. Getting essay feedback from a peer can help you wow your instructor or college admissions officer with an impactful essay that effectively illustrates your point.

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II. Getting Started

2.5 Writing Thesis Statements

Kathryn Crowther; Lauren Curtright; Nancy Gilbert; Barbara Hall; Tracienne Ravita; and Kirk Swenson

To be effective, all support in an essay must work together to convey a central point; otherwise, an essay can fall into the trap of being out of order and confusing. Just as a topic sentence focuses and unifies a single paragraph, the thesis statement focuses and unifies an entire essay. This statement is like a signpost that signals the essay’s destination; it tells the reader the point you want to make in your essay, while the essay itself supports that point.

Because writing is not a linear process, you may find that the best thesis statement develops near the end of your first draft. However, creating a draft or working thesis early in the writing project helps give the drafting process clear direction. You should form your thesis before you begin to organize an essay, but you may find that it needs revision as the essay develops.

A thesis is not just a topic, but rather the writer’s comment or interpretation of the question or subject. For whatever topic you select (for example, school uniforms, social networking), you must ask yourself, “What do I want to say about it?” Asking and then answering this question is vital to forming a thesis that is precise, forceful, and confident.

In the majority of essays, a thesis is one sentence long and appears toward the end of the introductory paragraph. It is specific and focuses on one to three points of a single idea—points that are able to be demonstrated in the body paragraphs. It forecasts the content of the essay and suggests how you will organize your information. Remember that a thesis statement does not summarize an issue but rather dissects it.

Working Thesis Statements

A strong thesis statement must have the following qualities:

• It must be arguable.  A thesis statement must state a point of view or judgment about a topic. An established fact is not considered arguable.
• It must be supportable.  The thesis statement must contain a point of view that can be supported with evidence (reasons, facts, examples).
• It must be specific. A thesis statement must be precise enough to allow for a coherent argument and remain focused on the topic.

Examples of Appropriate Thesis Statements

• Closing all American borders for a period of five years is one solution that will tackle illegal immigration.
• Compared to an absolute divorce, no-fault divorce is less expensive, promotes fairer settlements, and reflects a more realistic view of the causes for marital breakdown.
• Exposing children from an early age to the dangers of drug abuse is a sure method of preventing future drug addicts.
• In today’s crumbling job market, a high school diploma is not significant enough education to land a stable, lucrative job.
• The societal and personal struggles of Troy Maxson in the play Fences symbolize the challenges of black males who lived through segregation and integration in the United States.

Pitfalls to Avoid

A thesis is weak when it is simply a declaration of your subject or a description of what you will discuss in your essay.

Weak Thesis Statement Example

My paper will explain why imagination is more important than knowledge.

A thesis is weak when it makes an unreasonable or outrageous claim or insults the opposing side.

Religious radicals across America are trying to legislate their Puritanical beliefs by banning required high school books.

A thesis is weak when it contains an obvious fact or something that no one can disagree with or provides a dead end.

Advertising companies use sex to sell their products.

A thesis is weak when the statement is too broad.

The life of Abraham Lincoln was long and challenging.

Ways to Revise Your Thesis

Your thesis statement begins as a working thesis statement, an indefinite statement that you make about your topic early in the writing process for the purpose of planning and guiding your writing. Working thesis statements often become stronger as you gather information and develop new ideas and reasons for those ideas. Revision helps you strengthen your thesis so that it matches what you have expressed in the body of the paper.

You can cut down on irrelevant aspects and revise your thesis by taking the following steps:

• Pinpoint and replace all non specific words, such as people, everything, society, or life, with more precise words in order to reduce any vagueness.

Pinpoint and Replace Example

Working thesis:  Young people have to work hard to succeed in life.

Revised thesis:  Recent college graduates must have discipline and persistence in order to find and maintain a stable job in which they can use, and be appreciated for, their talents.

Explanation:  The original includes too broad a range of people and does not define exactly what success entails. By replacing those general words like people and work hard , the writer can better focus their research and gain more direction in their writing. The revised thesis makes a more specific statement about success and what it means to work hard.

• Clarify ideas that need explanation by asking yourself questions that narrow your thesis.

Clarify Example

Working thesis:  The welfare system is a joke.

Revised thesis:  The welfare system keeps a socioeconomic class from gaining employment by alluring members of that class with unearned income, instead of programs to improve their education and skill sets.

Explanation:  A joke means many things to many people. Readers bring all sorts of backgrounds and perspectives to the reading process and would need clarification for a word so vague. This expression may also be too informal for the selected audience. By asking questions, the writer can devise a more precise and appropriate explanation for joke and more accurately defines their stance, which will better guide the writing of the essay.

• Replace any linking verbs with action verbs. Linking verbs are forms of the verb to be , a verb that simply states that a situation exists.

Replace with Action Verbs Example

Working thesis:  Kansas City school teachers are not paid enough.

Revised thesis:  The Kansas City legislature cannot afford to pay its educators, resulting in job cuts and resignations in a district that sorely needs highly qualified and dedicated teachers.

Explanation:  The linking verb in this working thesis statement is the word are . Linking verbs often make thesis statements weak because they do not express action. Rather, they connect words and phrases to the second half of the sentence. Readers might wonder, “Why are they not paid enough?” But this statement does not compel them to ask many more questions.

• Who is not paying the teachers enough?
• How much is considered “enough”?
• What is the problem?
• What are the results?
• Omit any general claims that are hard to support.

Omit General Claims Example

Working thesis:  Today’s teenage girls are too sexualized.

Revised thesis: Teenage girls who are captivated by the sexual images on the internet and social media are conditioned to believe that a woman’s worth depends on her sensuality, a feeling that harms their self-esteem and behavior.

Explanation:  It is true that some young women in today’s society are more sexualized than in the past, but that is not true for all girls. Many girls have strict parents, dress appropriately, and do not engage in sexual activity while in middle school and high school. The writer of this thesis should ask the following questions:

• Which teenage girls?
• What constitutes “too” sexualized?
• Why are they behaving that way?
• Where does this behavior show up?
• What are the repercussions?

This section contains material from:

Crowther, Kathryn, Lauren Curtright, Nancy Gilbert, Barbara Hall, Tracienne Ravita, and Kirk Swenson. Successful College Composition . 2nd ed. Book 8. Georgia: English Open Textbooks, 2016. http://oer.galileo.usg.edu/english-textbooks/8 . Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License .

Relating to lines; a way of explaining information logically and/or sequentially; can refer to the chronological relaying of information.

A brief and concise statement or series of statements that outlines the main point(s) of a longer work. To summarize is to create a brief and concise statement or series of statements that outlines the main point(s) of a longer work.

To analyze closely or minutely; to scrutinize every aspect. Unlike the fields of biology, anatomy, or medicine, in rhetoric and writing, dissect does not refer to the cutting apart of a physical body but to the taking apart the body of an argument or idea piece by piece to understand it better.

A logical, rational, lucid, or understandable expression of an idea, concept, or notion; consistent and harmonious explanation.

Assertion or announcement of belief, understanding, or knowledge; a formal statement or proclamation.

Without a defined number or limit; unlimited, infinite, or undetermined.

An altered version of  a written work. Revising means to rewrite in order to improve and make corrections. Unlike editing, which involves minor changes, revisions include major and noticeable changes to a written work.

Not relevant; unimportant; beside the point; not relating to the matter at hand.

Attractive, tempting, or seductive; to have an appealing and charismatic quality.

To influence or convince; to produce a certain or specific result through the use of force.

2.5 Writing Thesis Statements Copyright © 2022 by Kathryn Crowther; Lauren Curtright; Nancy Gilbert; Barbara Hall; Tracienne Ravita; and Kirk Swenson is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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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

25 Thesis Statement Examples

A thesis statement is needed in an essay or dissertation . There are multiple types of thesis statements – but generally we can divide them into expository and argumentative. An expository statement is a statement of fact (common in expository essays and process essays) while an argumentative statement is a statement of opinion (common in argumentative essays and dissertations). Below are examples of each.

Strong Thesis Statement Examples

1. School Uniforms

“Mandatory school uniforms should be implemented in educational institutions as they promote a sense of equality, reduce distractions, and foster a focused and professional learning environment.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay or Debate

Read More: School Uniforms Pros and Cons

2. Nature vs Nurture

“This essay will explore how both genetic inheritance and environmental factors equally contribute to shaping human behavior and personality.”

Best For: Compare and Contrast Essay

Read More: Nature vs Nurture Debate

3. American Dream

“The American Dream, a symbol of opportunity and success, is increasingly elusive in today’s socio-economic landscape, revealing deeper inequalities in society.”

Best For: Persuasive Essay

Read More: What is the American Dream?

4. Social Media

“Social media has revolutionized communication and societal interactions, but it also presents significant challenges related to privacy, mental health, and misinformation.”

Best For: Expository Essay

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Social Media

5. Globalization

“Globalization has created a world more interconnected than ever before, yet it also amplifies economic disparities and cultural homogenization.”

Read More: Globalization Pros and Cons

6. Urbanization

“Urbanization drives economic growth and social development, but it also poses unique challenges in sustainability and quality of life.”

Read More: Learn about Urbanization

7. Immigration

“Immigration enriches receiving countries culturally and economically, outweighing any perceived social or economic burdens.”

Read More: Immigration Pros and Cons

8. Cultural Identity

“In a globalized world, maintaining distinct cultural identities is crucial for preserving cultural diversity and fostering global understanding, despite the challenges of assimilation and homogenization.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay

Read More: Learn about Cultural Identity

9. Technology

“Medical technologies in care institutions in Toronto has increased subjcetive outcomes for patients with chronic pain.”

Best For: Research Paper

10. Capitalism vs Socialism

“The debate between capitalism and socialism centers on balancing economic freedom and inequality, each presenting distinct approaches to resource distribution and social welfare.”

11. Cultural Heritage

“The preservation of cultural heritage is essential, not only for cultural identity but also for educating future generations, outweighing the arguments for modernization and commercialization.”

12. Pseudoscience

“Pseudoscience, characterized by a lack of empirical support, continues to influence public perception and decision-making, often at the expense of scientific credibility.”

Read More: Examples of Pseudoscience

13. Free Will

“The concept of free will is largely an illusion, with human behavior and decisions predominantly determined by biological and environmental factors.”

Read More: Do we have Free Will?

14. Gender Roles

“Traditional gender roles are outdated and harmful, restricting individual freedoms and perpetuating gender inequalities in modern society.”

Read More: What are Traditional Gender Roles?

15. Work-Life Ballance

“The trend to online and distance work in the 2020s led to improved subjective feelings of work-life balance but simultaneously increased self-reported loneliness.”

Read More: Work-Life Balance Examples

16. Universal Healthcare

“Universal healthcare is a fundamental human right and the most effective system for ensuring health equity and societal well-being, outweighing concerns about government involvement and costs.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Universal Healthcare

17. Minimum Wage

“The implementation of a fair minimum wage is vital for reducing economic inequality, yet it is often contentious due to its potential impact on businesses and employment rates.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Raising the Minimum Wage

18. Homework

“The homework provided throughout this semester has enabled me to achieve greater self-reflection, identify gaps in my knowledge, and reinforce those gaps through spaced repetition.”

Best For: Reflective Essay

Read More: Reasons Homework Should be Banned

19. Charter Schools

“Charter schools offer alternatives to traditional public education, promising innovation and choice but also raising questions about accountability and educational equity.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Charter Schools

20. Effects of the Internet

“The Internet has drastically reshaped human communication, access to information, and societal dynamics, generally with a net positive effect on society.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of the Internet

21. Affirmative Action

“Affirmative action is essential for rectifying historical injustices and achieving true meritocracy in education and employment, contrary to claims of reverse discrimination.”

Best For: Essay

Read More: Affirmative Action Pros and Cons

22. Soft Skills

“Soft skills, such as communication and empathy, are increasingly recognized as essential for success in the modern workforce, and therefore should be a strong focus at school and university level.”

Read More: Soft Skills Examples

23. Moral Panic

“Moral panic, often fueled by media and cultural anxieties, can lead to exaggerated societal responses that sometimes overlook rational analysis and evidence.”

Read More: Moral Panic Examples

24. Freedom of the Press

“Freedom of the press is critical for democracy and informed citizenship, yet it faces challenges from censorship, media bias, and the proliferation of misinformation.”

Read More: Freedom of the Press Examples

25. Mass Media

“Mass media shapes public opinion and cultural norms, but its concentration of ownership and commercial interests raise concerns about bias and the quality of information.”

Best For: Critical Analysis

Read More: Mass Media Examples

Checklist: How to use your Thesis Statement

✅ Position: If your statement is for an argumentative or persuasive essay, or a dissertation, ensure it takes a clear stance on the topic. ✅ Specificity: It addresses a specific aspect of the topic, providing focus for the essay. ✅ Conciseness: Typically, a thesis statement is one to two sentences long. It should be concise, clear, and easily identifiable. ✅ Direction: The thesis statement guides the direction of the essay, providing a roadmap for the argument, narrative, or explanation. ✅ Evidence-based: While the thesis statement itself doesn’t include evidence, it sets up an argument that can be supported with evidence in the body of the essay. ✅ Placement: Generally, the thesis statement is placed at the end of the introduction of an essay.

Try These AI Prompts – Thesis Statement Generator!

One way to brainstorm thesis statements is to get AI to brainstorm some for you! Try this AI prompt:

💡 AI PROMPT FOR EXPOSITORY THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTUCTIONS]. I want you to create an expository thesis statement that doesn’t argue a position, but demonstrates depth of knowledge about the topic.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR ARGUMENTATIVE THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTRUCTIONS]. I want you to create an argumentative thesis statement that clearly takes a position on this issue.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR COMPARE AND CONTRAST THESIS STATEMENT I am writing a compare and contrast essay that compares [Concept 1] and [Concept2]. Give me 5 potential single-sentence thesis statements that remain objective.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Animism Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 10 Magical Thinking Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Social-Emotional Learning (Definition, Examples, Pros & Cons)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ What is Educational Psychology?

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How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement

The important sentence expresses your central assertion or argument

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• Writing Research Papers
• Writing Essays
• English Grammar
• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

A thesis statement provides the foundation for your entire research paper or essay. This statement is the central assertion that you want to express in your essay. A successful thesis statement is one that is made up of one or two sentences clearly laying out your central idea and expressing an informed, reasoned answer to your research question.

Usually, the thesis statement will appear at the end of the first paragraph of your paper. There are a few different types, and the content of your thesis statement will depend upon the type of paper you’re writing.

Key Takeaways: Writing a Thesis Statement

• A thesis statement gives your reader a preview of your paper's content by laying out your central idea and expressing an informed, reasoned answer to your research question.
• Thesis statements will vary depending on the type of paper you are writing, such as an expository essay, argument paper, or analytical essay.
• Before creating a thesis statement, determine whether you are defending a stance, giving an overview of an event, object, or process, or analyzing your subject

Expository Essay Thesis Statement Examples

An expository essay "exposes" the reader to a new topic; it informs the reader with details, descriptions, or explanations of a subject. If you are writing an expository essay , your thesis statement should explain to the reader what she will learn in your essay. For example:

• The United States spends more money on its military budget than all the industrialized nations combined.
• Gun-related homicides and suicides are increasing after years of decline.
• Hate crimes have increased three years in a row, according to the FBI.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increases the risk of stroke and arterial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).

These statements provide a statement of fact about the topic (not just opinion) but leave the door open for you to elaborate with plenty of details. In an expository essay, you don't need to develop an argument or prove anything; you only need to understand your topic and present it in a logical manner. A good thesis statement in an expository essay always leaves the reader wanting more details.

Types of Thesis Statements

Before creating a thesis statement, it's important to ask a few basic questions, which will help you determine the kind of essay or paper you plan to create:

• Are you defending a stance in a controversial essay ?
• Are you simply giving an overview or describing an event, object, or process?
• Are you conducting an analysis of an event, object, or process?

In every thesis statement , you will give the reader a preview of your paper's content, but the message will differ a little depending on the essay type .

Argument Thesis Statement Examples

If you have been instructed to take a stance on one side of a controversial issue, you will need to write an argument essay . Your thesis statement should express the stance you are taking and may give the reader a preview or a hint of your evidence. The thesis of an argument essay could look something like the following:

• Self-driving cars are too dangerous and should be banned from the roadways.
• The exploration of outer space is a waste of money; instead, funds should go toward solving issues on Earth, such as poverty, hunger, global warming, and traffic congestion.
• The U.S. must crack down on illegal immigration.
• Street cameras and street-view maps have led to a total loss of privacy in the United States and elsewhere.

These thesis statements are effective because they offer opinions that can be supported by evidence. If you are writing an argument essay, you can craft your own thesis around the structure of the statements above.

Analytical Essay Thesis Statement Examples

In an analytical essay assignment, you will be expected to break down a topic, process, or object in order to observe and analyze your subject piece by piece. Examples of a thesis statement for an analytical essay include:

• The criminal justice reform bill passed by the U.S. Senate in late 2018 (" The First Step Act ") aims to reduce prison sentences that disproportionately fall on nonwhite criminal defendants.
• The rise in populism and nationalism in the U.S. and European democracies has coincided with the decline of moderate and centrist parties that have dominated since WWII.
• Later-start school days increase student success for a variety of reasons.

Because the role of the thesis statement is to state the central message of your entire paper, it is important to revisit (and maybe rewrite) your thesis statement after the paper is written. In fact, it is quite normal for your message to change as you construct your paper.

• 100 Persuasive Essay Topics
• 50 Argumentative Essay Topics
• How to Write a Good Thesis Statement
• What Is Expository Writing?
• An Introduction to Academic Writing
• Definition and Examples of Analysis in Composition
• Write an Attention-Grabbing Opening Sentence for an Essay
• How To Write an Essay
• Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay
• How to Write a Response Paper
• The Ultimate Guide to the 5-Paragraph Essay
• Understanding What an Expository Essay Is
• The Introductory Paragraph: Start Your Paper Off Right
• Tips for Writing an Art History Paper
• The Five Steps of Writing an Essay
• How to Write a Persuasive Essay

Education Thesis Statement

Writing an education thesis statement is no easy feat even if you have excellent writing skills. Crafting an education thesis statement that stands out from the crowd requires more than having a good vocabulary or a fancy pen. Here, is a simple guide that will show you how to write an excellent education thesis statement.

A good thesis statement for education essay should be able to logically unite the different parts or sections of the essay together while giving focus to the audience. There are different types of essays, and an education essay should take any of these forms or bear more than one of these forms. No matter the type of essay you decide to write, a thesis statement is essential. Because of its importance, it does not pay to write anything that comes to mind but carefully thought original sentences. If you do this correctly, you will have an education thesis statement.

What is an education thesis statement?

An education thesis statement is almost like a thesis statement. Only that it is more specific. It goes deeper than the general thesis statement. You have to know what a thesis statement means so you can understand an education thesis statement.

A thesis statement can be one or two sentences that highlight the topic and sub-topics of an essay. You usually look for those sentences when you are reading an essay. The thesis statements present a brief form of an idea that makes the essay.

A thesis statement for education essay can argue, analyze or state facts. The thesis statement will present this form presentable. You might want to argue against, take a stand or express your view in your essay. A thesis statement helps you do this, keeping your essay focused so that your reader might know what to expect in the essay.

What makes an education thesis statement outstanding?

Have you ever glanced through an essay and after the first two lines you said within yourself “ooh this is great”? If yes, then you have read a good thesis statement. But what exactly defines an outstanding education thesis statement? Is it determined by vast vocabulary, a fancy pen, writing skills or some blend of all of the above?

While it may be hard to pin down an exact definition that encapsulates an outstanding education thesis statement, they do tend to have some specific features. So, whether you are writing one now or in the nearest future, here are some general features that define a excellent education thesis statement:

Originality

What makes your readers want to read your essay? Is it because you are a great writer, or the topic is an interesting one? The correct answer to both questions is “no.”No one wants to read something they have read before. If any reader will read your essay, the readers want to be sure that they have not read it elsewhere before they saw your version.

You should also think of an education thesis statement in that way. Your readers want to see something new. You should be able to craft something that they might not see elsewhere apart from your own.

Persuasiveness

A good education thesis statement should make your readers agree with you. Now the point here is that you don’t need to be right or wrong. But what matters is that no matter your viewpoint, your thesis statement should make your reader agree with you.

You should persuade your reader that your viewpoint makes sense and that they should think along that line. Since your education thesis statement encapsulates your idea, it is safe to say that you should put more effort into the thesis statement.

Captivating

Like a blockbuster movie holds its viewers spellbound, so should your education thesis statement be. Your education thesis statement should make your reader flow with the writing. The statement should whoever will read your thesis statement early enough into the writing.

A good thesis statement about education should make your readers be like Oliver Twist that they will ask for more of your writing. You should be able to string words together that will keep your audience glued to the essay because if they like your thesis statement, there is a chance that they will read the essay.

It is not a mean feat to write, let alone an education thesis statement that has critics hanging around like vultures to puncture the viewpoint of the author. It even becomes harder when you have to put your perspective in a few words.

Writing straight to point and still capture the message perfectly is a quality of good writing. An education thesis statement is not an exception to this fact. Your thesis statement should be rich enough to convey the message of the essay and short enough for the reader. This ensures that the writing does not bore your reader due to the wordiness of your thesis statement.

How to make an education thesis statement outstanding?

For you to make a good education thesis statement, there are various steps that you have to follow to achieve this.

Ask yourself some questions

Most writers underrate the act of asking questions. A good question should help you understand your thesis better and formulate the statement. When you answer the question, you will be closer to crafting your thesis.

When arguing, Socrates used to ask himself and other people questions. If Socrates who lived tens of centuries ago asked himself questions to get to the root of a matter, you should also do so. Meanwhile, you can iterate the questions to serve the essay. This will lead you even closer to the essay.

Be specific

There is a difference between a man and a male. A male can mean a young man, a boy or a male animal depending on the context. But instead of writing statements that will mislead people, write a specific word. Be clear about what you meant so that it will not turn out that instead of debating the idea contained in your thesis statement, your intentions are discussed.

Stick to the main idea

Because a thesis statement is an encapsulation of your thesis does not mean that you should write compress many ideas inside your thesis statement. You should stick to a topic. For instance, this thesis statement “Abraham Lincoln was the best American president for he fought the South during the war, freed the slaves and did many great things” has too many ideas. You can express it better with “The Civil War was an important period of American History. Abraham Lincoln’s handling of the war is not only historic but puts him as one of Americans best president”.

Takes a stand

A good education thesis takes a stand. Before anyone reads your essay, they want to know that you are an authority of some sort.No patient will listen to a doctor who presents the negative and positive sides of a particular substance to a patient. The patient will instead the doctor say that substance is dangerous, so he avoids it, or it is good so he can take it. That is how your thesis statement should be. It should tell your audience that you mean what you are saying.No one wants to be lead by a man who is not sure of himself.

Make Sure You Presents Facts

When writing a thesis statement about the education , you might be tempted to engage the reader and exaggerates or say something outrageous. Do not do that! Make sure whatever you state in the thesis statement is something anyone can verify.

Before writing a thesis statement, you can start with a fact and iterate it so that you will not be accused of twisting facts to support your narratives.

Benefits of an outstanding education thesis statement

You might ask yourself “Why to write an outstanding education thesis statement?”

Well, the answer is obvious. Something outstanding stands out among its peers. While most education thesis statement might settle for the plain vanilla, the ones that are better than average get better reception. This is not the only benefit, but there are others like:

Organization

A good thesis statement on education helps to organize your essay. Since you know what your thesis statement is, you will plan your writing better. This is beneficial to you and your readers. Your readers will know what to look for in the essay. For you, it helps you define the scope of your writing.

You will be able to avoid the unnecessary fluffs that usually gets into writing. With unnecessary details inside your essay, your writing will look amateurish, and it can be a distraction for your readers.

Think of your education thesis statement as a map. When you have a clearly defined thesis statement, you will tailor your essay to meet the limits of your thesis statement. A good education thesis statement should help you not get lost in the process of writing. It should also keep your readers on the right path while they read through your essay.

The organization is essential in writing as it helps you keep the valuable parts and relegates the unnecessary parts to the dustbin.

Huge time saver

Time is an essential commodity that is not renewable. In fact, of all the resources available to anyone, time is the only one that cannot be controlled. The best one can do is manage it. Time is essential when writing an essay as time lost will bring the deadline closer.

With an outstanding education thesis statement, you will plan your writing better. This will help you know where you need to go for research, how you need to write and what is necessary. This, in turn, will help you focus on what matter – the essay.

Some writers after writing essays realize that they will have to eliminate a large chunk of information from their writing during the editing process. Although, removing paragraphs from writing during editing is not bad in itself, but a good thesis statement should help reduce the rate at which words will be flunked.

When the writing is good, the editing will be minimal. That is time saved in both writing and editing.

Things to avoid when writing an education thesis statement

For an education thesis statement to hit the right spot, it needs to prevent some certain pitfalls. Writers of essay often overlook these pitfalls. But, if it can be avoided, your thesis statement will carry more weight.

General statement

Large statement increases the scope of your writing. It also makes your thesis statement to take on any form. For example, a thesis about Global Warming might explore the different effects of Global Warming. A bad thesis statement might say “Global Warming is harmful.” This statement is general in itself that your essay might take the size of a book and you still have not covered the effect of Global Warming.

A better thesis statement might say “Weather has changed drastically over the years no thanks to global warming. This can be observed in the temperature change, frequent rainstorms, winds, and typhoons; scientists say these changes are caused by global climate change”. This one is better than the one above, and the readers will see a clearer picture of what will be discussed.

Doing minimal or no research

An essay is without research will lead to bad results. This can be seen in the thesis statement as someone who made no effort in researching will craft a bad thesis statement. In writing a thesis statement, adequate knowledge of the subject is necessary. This way, you can compose your viewpoint into short sentences. 

Writing a good thesis statement on education depends on how you understand the topic. When you understand the topic well, you can summarize the main ideas of your essay into two sentences or less. Writing a good thesis statement is also an art as you will need to use words that capture the interest of your readers while presenting facts and arguing your points satisfactory. The above guide should help you craft a good thesis statement that will add punch to your writing.

College Essay Thesis Statement

Crafting a potent thesis statement for a college essay is an art that can shape the trajectory of your argument and captivate your readers. As students transition from high school to college, the complexity and depth of essays increase, demanding more intricate thesis statements. Whether you’re dissecting literary works, examining scientific phenomena, or debating societal changes, the right thesis sets the tone. Dive into our comprehensive guide to explore exemplary thesis statement examples, insightful writing methodologies, and handy tips tailored for college-level essays.

What is a thesis statement for a college essay? – Definition

A thesis statement for a college essay is a concise, clear, one-to-two-sentence statement that presents the main idea, argument, or focus of an essay. It serves as a roadmap, guiding the reader through the arguments presented in the essay and giving them an insight into the essay’s purpose. For college-level essays, the thesis often goes beyond mere statement of facts, delving into analysis, evaluation, or interpretation of a particular topic or set of ideas.

What is an example of a College Essay thesis statement?

“In exploring the multifaceted dynamics of climate change, it becomes evident that human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, play a paramount role in exacerbating global warming, thereby necessitating urgent international intervention and sustainable practices.”  You may also be interested in our  undergraduate thesis statement .

100 Thesis Statement Examples for College Essay

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Crafting an impactful thesis statement for a college essay requires both precision and depth. Serving as the foundation for your argument, a well-constructed thesis captures the essence of your essay topic and directs the narrative. For college essays, the good thesis statement often provides analysis, context, or a unique perspective.

• The Impacts of Social Media: “The pervasive influence of social media on contemporary society extends beyond communication, reshaping personal identities, societal norms, and global politics.”
• Modern Feminism: “Third-wave feminism, while building on the achievements of the past, focuses on dismantling patriarchal norms in media, workplace dynamics, and intersectional discrimination.”
• AI and Ethics: “The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence necessitates the development of comprehensive ethical guidelines to prevent potential misuse and protect individual rights.”
• The Evolution of Jazz: “The metamorphosis of jazz from the 1920s to the present showcases a rich interplay of cultural influences, technological advances, and individual genius.”
• Climate Change Politics: “The divisive politics surrounding climate change hinder comprehensive global policies, despite overwhelming scientific consensus and observable ecological shifts.”
• Renaissance Art: “The art of the Renaissance, deeply rooted in religious themes, also mirrored societal shifts towards individualism and secularism, forever changing the trajectory of Western art.”
• Quantum Mechanics for Laymen: “The principles of quantum mechanics, while seemingly abstract and counterintuitive, have direct implications on daily technologies, from smartphones to medical equipment.”
• Mental Health in Universities: “The alarming rise in mental health issues among university students calls for institutional strategies that prioritize well-being, including better counseling services and academic support.”
• Post-Colonial African Economies: “The economic landscapes of post-colonial African nations are shaped by both remnants of colonial exploitation and emerging local innovations, demanding a nuanced understanding.”
• Veganism and Health: “Adopting a vegan lifestyle, while promoting ethical treatment of animals, also offers profound health benefits, including reduced risks of chronic diseases.”
• Gothic Literature: “Gothic literature, with its dark motifs and introspective characters, reflects societal anxieties of its time, from feudal systems to industrial revolution repercussions.”
• Cryptocurrencies and Global Finance: “The surge in cryptocurrency popularity challenges traditional financial systems, promising decentralization but also raising concerns about stability and regulation.”
• The Philosophy of Science: “The philosophy of science not only questions the nature of scientific inquiry but also examines its relationship with truth, belief, and societal progress.”
• Migration Patterns: “Contemporary global migration patterns, influenced by conflicts, economic opportunities, and environmental changes, reshape socio-political landscapes of both origin and host countries.”
• The Role of Play in Child Development: “Structured and unstructured play, essential for child development, fosters cognitive, social, and physical skills, challenging contemporary educational paradigms.”
• Fusion Cuisine: “The emergence of fusion cuisine underscores the melding of diverse cultures, reflecting globalization’s impact on gastronomy.”
• Bioethical Concerns in Genetics: “Advancements in genetic engineering, while promising medical breakthroughs, raise significant bioethical concerns, from designer babies to socio-economic disparities.”
• Space Exploration and Humanity: “Space exploration, beyond technological marvel, challenges our understanding of humanity’s place in the universe, posing philosophical, ethical, and existential questions.”
• Gentrification and Urban Development: “The process of gentrification, while reviving urban locales, often displaces long-standing communities, creating socio-economic rifts.”
• Eastern vs. Western Medicine: “The dichotomy between Eastern holistic practices and Western allopathic medicine reflects differing cultural perspectives on health, wellness, and healing.
• The Impact of Greek Philosophy: “Ancient Greek philosophy, with its emphasis on introspection and ethics, has sculpted Western thought, influencing everything from science to modern governance.”
• Modern Architecture: “Contemporary architectural practices, merging functionality with aesthetics, reflect society’s evolving relationship with urban spaces and sustainability.”
• Digital Marketing Evolution: “The rise of digital marketing strategies, driven by analytics and personalization, is redefining brand-consumer relationships in the digital age.”
• Epidemiology of Pandemics: “Historical and contemporary pandemics highlight the intricate interplay between global travel, public health infrastructure, and societal response.”
• Romantic Poetry: “Romantic poetry, with its reverence for nature and emotion, represents a rebellion against Enlightenment’s rationalism and the industrial era’s dehumanization.”
• Nano-technology in Medicine: “Nanotechnology’s integration in medical fields promises revolutionary treatments but also presents uncharted ethical and health concerns.”
• Organic Farming vs. Conventional Methods: “Organic farming, championing biodiversity and ecological balance, counters conventional farming’s detrimental environmental effects, albeit with challenges of scalability.”
• The World of eSports: “The meteoric rise of eSports blurs the lines between traditional sports and digital entertainment, demanding recognition in mainstream culture and economics.”
• Biodiversity Loss: “The alarming rate of global biodiversity loss, intensified by human activities, jeopardizes ecosystem stability and human sustenance.”
• Shakespeare’s Female Characters: “Shakespeare’s portrayal of female characters defies Elizabethan norms, presenting complex women who navigate power, love, and fate.”
• Blockchain Beyond Cryptocurrency: “Blockchain’s potential extends beyond cryptocurrencies, promising transparency and security in sectors like healthcare, logistics, and public records.”
• Impact of K-Pop: “K-Pop’s global surge underscores the power of cultural exchange in the digital age, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers.”
• Neuroscience and Free Will: “Contemporary neuroscience’s insights into decision-making challenge traditional notions of free will and moral responsibility.”
• Postmodern Literature: “Postmodern literature, with its fragmented narratives and metafictional techniques, mirrors society’s quest for meaning in an age of skepticism.”
• Renewable Energy Solutions: “Harnessing renewable energy sources, from solar to wind, is pivotal in combating climate change, though it presents economic and infrastructural challenges.”
• Virtual Reality in Education: “The integration of virtual reality in educational settings promises immersive learning experiences, revolutionizing traditional pedagogies.”
• Mental Health and Pop Culture: “Pop culture’s portrayal of mental health, while often sensationalized, has ignited critical discussions about stigmatization and representation.”
• Ancient Civilizations and Modern Society: “Ancient civilizations, from their governance structures to technological innovations, have indelibly shaped the socio-cultural fabric of modern societies.”
• Dystopian Fiction’s Reflections: “Dystopian fiction’s grim visions echo societal anxieties about technology, governance, and human nature.”
• The Ethics of Animal Testing: “Animal testing, central to many scientific breakthroughs, remains ethically contentious, balancing medical advancements against animal welfare.”
• Financial Crises and Global Interconnectivity: “Recurrent financial crises underscore the intricate interdependencies in global financial systems, highlighting the need for coordinated international policies.”
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: “The integration of AI in healthcare, from diagnostics to treatment, promises precision medicine but necessitates rigorous ethical scrutiny.”
• Buddhism in the Modern World: “Buddhism’s contemporary resurgence in the West showcases the quest for spiritual meaning beyond materialism.”
• The Fashion Industry and Sustainability: “The fashion industry’s increasing shift towards sustainability battles its historically significant environmental footprint.”
• Impacts of Colonization: “Colonization’s legacies, evident in socio-political structures and cultural dynamics, continue to influence post-colonial nations.”
• Microplastics and Environmental Health: “Microplastics, pervasive in ecosystems, pose insidious threats to environmental and human health, demanding global mitigation strategies.”
• Cybersecurity in the Digital Age: “In our increasingly interconnected world, cybersecurity becomes paramount, safeguarding personal, corporate, and national interests.”
• Narratives in Video Games: “Modern video games, with intricate narratives and character development, challenge traditional storytelling mediums, offering immersive experiences.”
• Quantum Computing’s Potential: “Quantum computing, while in its nascent stages, holds the promise to revolutionize industries from cryptography to drug discovery.”
• LGBTQ+ Representation in Media: “Increased LGBTQ+ representation in media mirrors societal shifts, fostering visibility and challenging long-standing stereotypes.”
• The Microbiome and Human Health: “Understanding the human microbiome’s complexity has redefined our perspectives on health, disease, and even consciousness.”
• The Digital Divide: “The digital divide, separating tech-savvy communities from the underserved, intensifies socio-economic disparities in the information age.”
• Evolution of Language: “The dynamic evolution of languages, shaped by socio-political changes and technological advances, encapsulates cultural histories and identities.”
• Ethical Implications of Drone Warfare: “Drone warfare, while mitigating soldier casualties, raises pressing ethical concerns regarding civilian impacts and accountability.”
• Impact of Streaming Services: “Streaming services, redefining media consumption, challenge traditional entertainment industries and reshape global cultural dynamics.”
• Yoga’s Global Popularity: “Yoga’s global ascent, beyond a physical regimen, underscores a universal quest for holistic well-being and cultural exchange.”
• Future of Work and Automation: “Automation and AI’s rise promises efficiency but also necessitates a reevaluation of work, identity, and economic structures.”
• Middle Eastern Politics: “The complexities of Middle Eastern politics, rooted in historical, religious, and socio-economic intricacies, shape global geopolitics.”
• Psychedelics and Mental Health: “Recent research on psychedelics hints at groundbreaking mental health treatments, challenging established therapeutic norms and societal perceptions.”
• Modernism in Visual Arts: “Modernist art, with its abstracted forms and innovative techniques, reflects a tumultuous era’s socio-cultural upheavals.”
• Impact of Autonomous Vehicles: “The emergence of autonomous vehicles, while promising safety and efficiency, raises ethical, economic, and infrastructural questions.”
• Indigenous Rights and Globalization: “Globalization’s sweep, often erasing indigenous cultures, necessitates urgent measures to preserve native rights, languages, and traditions.”
• Role of Cryptography: “Cryptography, foundational to digital security, balances the dual imperatives of privacy protection and lawful surveillance.”
• The Ethics of Gene Editing: “Gene editing technologies like CRISPR, promising medical marvels, also provoke ethical dilemmas concerning genetic determinism and potential misuse.”
• Music Therapy and Health: “Music therapy’s efficacy, bridging neurology and emotions, offers holistic approaches to mental and physical wellness.”
• Impact of Fast Fashion: “Fast fashion’s allure of affordability comes at significant environmental and ethical costs, spotlighting the need for sustainable alternatives.”
• Space Tourism’s Future: “Space tourism, once a sci-fi dream, confronts real-world challenges of safety, ethics, and environmental impact.”
• Role of Microfinance in Development: “Microfinance initiatives, empowering marginalized communities, showcase a potent blend of social welfare and economic strategy.”
• Migration and Globalization: “Globalization, driving migration patterns, highlights the interplay between economic opportunity, cultural exchange, and socio-political challenges.”
• Role of Satire in Social Commentary: “Satire, with its humor and critique, has historically been a potent tool for social commentary, challenging power structures and societal norms.”
• Evolution of E-commerce: “E-commerce, transformed by technological innovations and consumer behaviors, is reshaping global retail, logistics, and consumer expectations.”
• Rise of Citizen Journalism: “Citizen journalism, democratizing news dissemination, challenges traditional media paradigms but also raises concerns about credibility and accountability.”
• Green Technologies and Urban Planning: “Green technologies in urban planning promise sustainable cityscapes, melding ecological concerns with inhabitants’ well-being.”
• Multilingualism and Cognitive Benefits: “Multilingualism, beyond cultural enrichment, offers cognitive benefits, enhancing problem-solving, multitasking, and memory.”
• Human Rights in Digital Surveillance: “The rise of digital surveillance, while promising security, poses grave concerns about privacy, freedom, and human rights.”
• History and Evolution of Tattoos: “Tattoos, once a cultural or ritualistic symbol, have evolved into a form of personal expression, influenced by global aesthetics and societal shifts.”
• Neopets and Early Internet Culture: “Neopets, while a nostalgic game for many, provides insights into early internet culture, commerce, and online community dynamics.”
• Historical Revolutions and Modern Impacts: “Historical revolutions, shaping nations and cultures, offer insights into resistance, societal change, and the enduring human spirit.”
• Gaming and Social Skills: “Contrary to popular belief, modern multiplayer gaming environments foster critical social skills, teamwork, and global collaboration.”
• Oscar Wilde’s Social Commentary: “Oscar Wilde’s literary works, beyond their wit, provide incisive social commentary on Victorian society, morality, and hypocrisy.”
• Paleo Diet in Modern Times: “The Paleo diet’s resurgence, inspired by ancestral eating patterns, challenges contemporary dietary norms and industrial food practices.”
• Ancient Mythologies in Modern Media: “Ancient mythologies, continually reinvented in modern media, highlight humanity’s enduring fascination with heroism, morality, and the unknown.”
• Pop Art and Consumer Culture: “Pop art, celebrating and critiquing consumer culture, reflects the post-war era’s juxtaposition of prosperity and existential angst.”
• Classical Music’s Modern Revival: “Classical music’s modern revival, fused with genres from rock to techno, illustrates its timeless adaptability and emotional resonance.”
• Modern Slavery and Global Supply Chains: “Modern slavery, concealed within global supply chains, necessitates rigorous corporate responsibility and consumer awareness.”
• Manga and Cultural Export: “Manga’s global popularity showcases Japan’s cultural export’s potency and the universality of its themes and narratives.”
• Impact of Reality TV: “Reality TV, blending entertainment and real-life, influences societal norms, aspirations, and perceptions of authenticity.”
• Influence of Nordic Noir on Crime Fiction: “Nordic Noir, with its bleak landscapes and introspective detectives, has reshaped global crime fiction, emphasizing atmosphere and social critique.”
• Data Privacy in the Digital World: “As personal data becomes the new gold, the tug-of-war between corporate interests, governmental regulations, and individual privacy intensifies.”
• Adaptations and Originality in Cinema: “Film adaptations, while deriving from original sources, pose challenges and opportunities for creativity, fidelity, and cultural interpretation.”
• Eco-Tourism’s Role and Responsibilities: “Eco-tourism, promoting sustainable travel, carries the responsibility of genuine environmental stewardship, not mere green-washing.”
• Post-Apocalyptic Fiction’s Appeal: “Post-apocalyptic fiction’s allure lies in exploring societal rebuilds, human resilience, and moral dilemmas in extremis.”
• Veganism’s Socio-Economic Impact: “Veganism, beyond dietary choice, influences global agriculture, economies, and debates on ethics and sustainability.”
• Matriarchy in Historical Societies: “Historical matriarchal societies, often overshadowed in mainstream historiography, offer insights into gender dynamics, leadership, and cultural norms.”
• Impressionism and Perception: “Impressionist artists, capturing fleeting moments and atmospheres, challenge viewers to consider the subjective nature of perception.”
• Decolonizing Global Education: “Decolonizing education necessitates a reevaluation of curricula, pedagogy, and institutional structures, embracing diverse knowledge systems.”
• Renaissance Humanism’s Legacy: “Renaissance humanism, championing reason, art, and individual potential, laid the groundwork for modern Western thought.”
• Cyberpunk and Technological Dystopia: “Cyberpunk literature, exploring high-tech dystopias, reflects anxieties about unchecked technological advancements and societal control.”
• Holistic Medicine’s Role in Modern Healthcare: “Holistic medicine’s growing role emphasizes a comprehensive view of health, blending physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.”
• Feminism’s Waves and Evolution: “Understanding feminism requires studying its multifaceted waves, each addressing unique socio-political contexts and challenges.

These thesis statements are designed to encompass a vast array of topics suitable for college essays, providing a foundation upon which a student can build their argument or exploration.

Thesis Statement Examples for College Argumentative Essay

In a college argumentative essay thesis statement clearly states a position on a debatable issue, setting the tone for the subsequent arguments. It’s crafted to persuade readers and backed up with solid evidence throughout the essay.

• Censorship and Art: “Art should remain uncensored as it serves as society’s mirror, reflecting both its beauty and ugliness.”
• Mandatory Voting: “Mandatory voting should not be imposed as it infringes on personal freedom and may lead to uninformed decisions.”
• Digital Privacy: “In the digital age, individual privacy rights should supersede governmental security concerns.”
• Standardized Testing: “Standardized tests fail to accurately measure student intelligence and should be de-emphasized in college admissions.”
• Veganism and Environment: “Adopting a vegan lifestyle is the most impactful step an individual can take for environmental conservation.”
• Space Exploration: “Investment in space exploration is not an extravagance but a necessity for scientific advancement.”
• Tuition-free College: “Tuition-free college, while an idealistic notion, may not be the most practical solution for educational reform.”
• Universal Basic Income: “A Universal Basic Income (UBI) can address socio-economic disparities and provide a safety net in a rapidly automating world.”
• E-sports Recognition: “E-sports should receive the same recognition and support as traditional sports, given its competitive nature and vast audience.”
• Language Preservation: “With globalization, proactive steps are essential to preserve endangered languages and, by extension, cultural diversity.”

Thesis Statement Examples for College Admission Essay

For a college admission essay, the thesis statement encapsulates the main idea or theme the applicant wishes to convey. It highlights personal experiences, values, or aspirations in a succinct manner.

• Personal Growth: “My year volunteering in Nepal transformed my worldview, instilling in me a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and global citizenship.”
• Pursuit of Medicine: “A close encounter with a life-threatening illness in my family ignited my unwavering passion for medicine.”
• Artistic Endeavors: “Growing up in a family of artists, I’ve learned to view the world as a canvas of endless possibilities.”
• Overcoming Adversities: “Battling dyslexia not only strengthened my resolve but also shaped my unique perspective on learning and adaptability.”
• Leadership Evolution: “My role as the student council president honed my leadership skills, teaching me the nuances of collaboration and decision-making.”
• Environmental Activism: “Witnessing the impact of climate change in my hometown propelled me into environmental activism, a mission I wish to expand in college.”
• Science and Curiosity: “My childhood fascination with the cosmos steered me towards astrophysics, a field where my curiosity finds its calling.”
• Global Engagement: “Participating in Model United Nations cultivated my interest in global affairs and diplomacy.”
• Digital Innovation: “Creating my first mobile app at 15 revealed my penchant for technological innovation and problem-solving.”
• Sports and Teamwork: “Being a basketball team captain taught me the balance between individual prowess and collective strength.”

3 Point Thesis Statement Examples for College Essay

A three-point thesis statement offers a concise overview of three main arguments or aspects that will be addressed in the essay. This structure helps guide the reader and provides a clear roadmap of the writer’s points.

• Impact of Social Media: “Social media revolutionizes communication, influences self-perception, and has significant socio-political implications.”
• Modern Education’s Challenges: “Today’s education system grapples with technological integration, evolving pedagogies, and increasing mental health concerns among students.”
• Globally Influential Novels: “Novels like ‘1984,’ ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ and ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ tackle dystopian futures, racial injustice, and magical realism, respectively.”
• Urbanization Concerns: “Rapid urbanization leads to infrastructural strain, environmental degradation, and socio-cultural shifts in metropolitan areas.”
• The Power of Music: “Music serves as a universal language, a therapeutic tool, and a reflection of societal epochs.”
• Digital Age Revolution: “The digital age reshapes information accessibility, interpersonal relationships, and global economic structures.”
• Human-Animal Bond: “The relationship between humans and animals encompasses companionship, therapeutic benefits, and ethical dilemmas.”
• Climate Change Effects: “Climate change precipitates extreme weather events, threatens biodiversity, and impacts global socio-economic structures.”
• Ancient Civilizations’ Legacies: “Ancient Egypt, Greece, and China profoundly influenced art and architecture, political systems, and philosophical thought.”
• Healthy Lifestyle Components: “A holistic healthy lifestyle encompasses balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and mental well-being.

Do College Essays Have Thesis Statements?

Absolutely. While the format might vary, the thesis statement’s role remains crucial in college essays. It captures the essence of your argument or the main point you’re conveying. From analytical to personal narratives, having a clear thesis or central idea can elevate your essay.

How Do You Write a Thesis Statement for a College Essay? – Step by Step Guide

• Decipher the Prompt: Begin by breaking down the essay question. Recognize its nuances and understand its demands.
• Pick a Relevant Topic: Your chosen topic should not only intrigue you but should also be relevant to your course and the prompt.
• Engage in Research: Dive into scholarly articles, journals, and credible online sources to gather insights and refine your perspective.
• Formulate Your Argument: Deduce your stance or the main message you want to communicate.
• Aim for Precision: Your thesis should be a beacon for your essay. Avoid ambiguity and be direct.
• Ensure It’s Open to Debate: Particularly for argumentative essays, your thesis should incite discussion, signaling that there’s more to be explored.
• Positioning is Key: Place your thesis towards the end of your introduction to give readers a clear roadmap.
• Iterate: As your essay evolves, adjust your thesis if necessary to mirror your arguments more accurately.
• Seek Peer Review: A fresh set of eyes can offer valuable feedback to enhance clarity and cogency.
• Solidify: Ensure that your finalized thesis seamlessly ties together the various threads of your essay.

Tips for Writing a Thesis Statement for a College Essay

• Maintain Clarity: Dive straight into your point. Avoid unnecessary detours.
• Stay Away from Clichés: College essays thrive on original thought. Ensure your thesis isn’t a regurgitated idea.
• Be Bold: Use assertive language. Steer clear of phrases like “I feel” or “It might.”
• Narrow It Down: Broad statements dilute impact. “The effects of climate change on coastal cities” is more potent than “Climate change affects the world.”
• Stay Adaptable: Your essay might evolve, and that’s okay. Adjust your thesis accordingly.
• Hone the Skill: Practice drafting thesis statements even outside of assignments. It’s a craft that gets sharper with use.
• Echo in Conclusion: Your essay should come full circle, reiterating the essence of your thesis in the conclusion.
• Avoid Overcomplicated Terms: While scholarly, your essay should be readable. Don’t overwhelm with jargon.
• Stick to the Prompt: Ensure your thesis remains anchored to the essay prompt, offering a clear and direct response.
• Reflect Depth: Your thesis, though concise, should hint at the depth and complexity of your exploration.

By adhering to these guidelines and tailoring them to the specific demands of each essay, you’ll enhance the quality and effectiveness of your college essays.

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25 Thesis Statement Examples That Will Make Writing a Breeze

Understanding what makes a good thesis statement is one of the major keys to writing a great research paper or argumentative essay. The thesis statement is where you make a claim that will guide you through your entire paper. If you find yourself struggling to make sense of your paper or your topic, then it's likely due to a weak thesis statement.

Let's take a minute to first understand what makes a solid thesis statement, and what key components you need to write one of your own.

A thesis statement always goes at the beginning of the paper. It will typically be in the first couple of paragraphs of the paper so that it can introduce the body paragraphs, which are the supporting evidence for your thesis statement.

Your thesis statement should clearly identify an argument. You need to have a statement that is not only easy to understand, but one that is debatable. What that means is that you can't just put any statement of fact and have it be your thesis. For example, everyone knows that puppies are cute . An ineffective thesis statement would be, "Puppies are adorable and everyone knows it." This isn't really something that's a debatable topic.

Something that would be more debatable would be, "A puppy's cuteness is derived from its floppy ears, small body, and playfulness." These are three things that can be debated on. Some people might think that the cutest thing about puppies is the fact that they follow you around or that they're really soft and fuzzy.

All cuteness aside, you want to make sure that your thesis statement is not only debatable, but that it also actually thoroughly answers the research question that was posed. You always want to make sure that your evidence is supporting a claim that you made (and not the other way around). This is why it's crucial to read and research about a topic first and come to a conclusion later. If you try to get your research to fit your thesis statement, then it may not work out as neatly as you think. As you learn more, you discover more (and the outcome may not be what you originally thought).

Additionally, your thesis statement shouldn't be too big or too grand. It'll be hard to cover everything in a thesis statement like, "The federal government should act now on climate change." The topic is just too large to actually say something new and meaningful. Instead, a more effective thesis statement might be, "Local governments can combat climate change by providing citizens with larger recycling bins and offering local classes about composting and conservation." This is easier to work with because it's a smaller idea, but you can also discuss the overall topic that you might be interested in, which is climate change.

So, now that we know what makes a good, solid thesis statement, you can start to write your own. If you find that you're getting stuck or you are the type of person who needs to look at examples before you start something, then check out our list of thesis statement examples below.

Thesis statement examples

A quick note that these thesis statements have not been fully researched. These are merely examples to show you what a thesis statement might look like and how you can implement your own ideas into one that you think of independently. As such, you should not use these thesis statements for your own research paper purposes. They are meant to be used as examples only.

• Vaccinations Because many children are unable to vaccinate due to illness, we must require that all healthy and able children be vaccinated in order to have herd immunity.
• Educational Resources for Low-Income Students Schools should provide educational resources for low-income students during the summers so that they don't forget what they've learned throughout the school year.
• School Uniforms School uniforms may be an upfront cost for families, but they eradicate the visual differences in income between students and provide a more egalitarian atmosphere at school.
• Populism The rise in populism on the 2016 political stage was in reaction to increasing globalization, the decline of manufacturing jobs, and the Syrian refugee crisis.
• Public Libraries Libraries are essential resources for communities and should be funded more heavily by local municipalities.
• Cyber Bullying With more and more teens using smartphones and social media, cyber bullying is on the rise. Cyber bullying puts a lot of stress on many teens, and can cause depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Parents should limit the usage of smart phones, monitor their children's online activity, and report any cyber bullying to school officials in order to combat this problem.
• Medical Marijuana for Veterans Studies have shown that the use of medicinal marijuana has been helpful to veterans who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Medicinal marijuana prescriptions should be legal in all states and provided to these veterans. Additional medical or therapy services should also be researched and implemented in order to help them re-integrate back into civilian life.
• Work-Life Balance Corporations should provide more work from home opportunities and six-hour workdays so that office workers have a better work-life balance and are more likely to be productive when they are in the office.
• Teaching Youths about Consensual Sex Although sex education that includes a discussion of consensual sex would likely lead to less sexual assault, parents need to teach their children the meaning of consent from a young age with age appropriate lessons.
• Whether or Not to Attend University A degree from a university provides invaluable lessons on life and a future career, but not every high school student should be encouraged to attend a university directly after graduation. Some students may benefit from a trade school or a "gap year" where they can think more intensely about what it is they want to do for a career and how they can accomplish this.
• Studying Abroad Studying abroad is one of the most culturally valuable experiences you can have in college. It is the only way to get completely immersed in another language and learn how other cultures and countries are different from your own.
• Women's Body Image Magazines have done a lot in the last five years to include a more diverse group of models, but there is still a long way to go to promote a healthy woman's body image collectively as a culture.
• Cigarette Tax Heavily taxing and increasing the price of cigarettes is essentially a tax on the poorest Americans, and it doesn't deter them from purchasing. Instead, the state and federal governments should target those economically disenfranchised with early education about the dangers of smoking.
• Veganism A vegan diet, while a healthy and ethical way to consume food, indicates a position of privilege. It also limits you to other cultural food experiences if you travel around the world.
• University Athletes Should be Compensated University athletes should be compensated for their service to the university, as it is difficult for these students to procure and hold a job with busy academic and athletic schedules. Many student athletes on scholarship also come from low-income neighborhoods and it is a struggle to make ends meet when they are participating in athletics.
• Women in the Workforce Sheryl Sandberg makes a lot of interesting points in her best-selling book, Lean In , but she only addressed the very privileged working woman and failed to speak to those in lower-skilled, lower-wage jobs.
• Assisted Suicide Assisted suicide should be legal and doctors should have the ability to make sure their patients have the end-of-life care that they want to receive.
• Celebrity and Political Activism Although Taylor Swift's lyrics are indicative of a feminist perspective, she should be more politically active and vocal to use her position of power for the betterment of society.
• The Civil War The insistence from many Southerners that the South seceded from the Union for states' rights versus the fact that they seceded for the purposes of continuing slavery is a harmful myth that still affects race relations today.
• Blue Collar Workers Coal miners and other blue-collar workers whose jobs are slowly disappearing from the workforce should be re-trained in jobs in the technology sector or in renewable energy. A program to re-train these workers would not only improve local economies where jobs have been displaced, but would also lead to lower unemployment nationally.
• Diversity in the Workforce Having a diverse group of people in an office setting leads to richer ideas, more cooperation, and more empathy between people with different skin colors or backgrounds.
• Re-Imagining the Nuclear Family The nuclear family was traditionally defined as one mother, one father, and 2.5 children. This outdated depiction of family life doesn't quite fit with modern society. The definition of normal family life shouldn't be limited to two-parent households.
• Digital Literacy Skills With more information readily available than ever before, it's crucial that students are prepared to examine the material they're reading and determine whether or not it's a good source or if it has misleading information. Teaching students digital literacy and helping them to understand the difference between opinion or propaganda from legitimate, real information is integral.
• Beauty Pageants Beauty pageants are presented with the angle that they empower women. However, putting women in a swimsuit on a stage while simultaneously judging them on how well they answer an impossible question in a short period of time is cruel and purely for the amusement of men. Therefore, we should stop televising beauty pageants.
• Supporting More Women to Run for a Political Position In order to get more women into political positions, more women must run for office. There must be a grassroots effort to educate women on how to run for office, who among them should run, and support for a future candidate for getting started on a political career.

Still stuck? Need some help with your thesis statement?

If you are still uncertain about how to write a thesis statement or what a good thesis statement is, be sure to consult with your teacher or professor to make sure you're on the right track. It's always a good idea to check in and make sure that your thesis statement is making a solid argument and that it can be supported by your research.

After you're done writing, it's important to have someone take a second look at your paper so that you can ensure there are no mistakes or errors. It's difficult to spot your own mistakes, which is why it's always recommended to have someone help you with the revision process, whether that's a teacher, the writing center at school, or a professional editor such as one from ServiceScape .

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How to Get Holocaust Education Right

“Educate them about the Holocaust.”

That’s the rallying cry for many of those who feel shocked by skyrocketing antisemitism and Islamophobia on college campuses and K-12 schools. Learning about the Final Solution, the reasoning goes, steers young Americans against bigotry.

As the grandson of Auschwitz and Buchenwald survivors and an educator and documentary filmmaker who often tells Holocaust-related stories, I used to subscribe to this notion. But I’ve come to realize that despite being embedded in K-12 social studies, world history, and English literature curricula throughout the country, Holocaust education has failed to uproot hate and ignorance.  

Social media, where teens spend about five hours a day on average, teem with “ Holocaust denial and distortion ,” as well as antisemitic and Islamophobic conspiracy theories. The latest, for instance, falsely blames the Jews for Congress’ TikTok crackdown . No wonder K-12 schools’ incidents of antisemitism and Islamophobia have skyrocketed , even before the Israel-Hamas War erupted and broke the hydrant of hatred wide open.

Read More: Who Needs Holocaust Remembrance Day in 2024?

In recent weeks, a flood of Israel-Hamas War-related hostility has forced an increasing number of university administrations around the country—such as Columbia, the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of Southern California—to summon the police in an attempt to quell student protests. Columbia moved all classes online on the eve of Passover, suspended some protesters , and threatened to expel those who’d occupied a campus building. USC revamped its commencement plans. And although most protests have played out as legitimate political activism reminiscent of the 1960s student movements, some have reportedly crossed the line into antisemitic and Islamophobic vitriol and violence.

On campuses and schoolyards, Jews and Muslims have suffered physical and psychological harm—from being jabbed in the face by a flagpole and requiring hospitalization to being called “terrorists” and needing mental-health counseling. The U.S. Department of Education’s Civil Rights Office has been investigating several universities and school districts.

Holocaust education, in its foundational intention, was supposed to nip much of this in the bud. Taught at elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the country since the 1970s, it’s been positioned for wide impact. Twenty-six states require the instruction of the Holocaust. Most of the other states have funded commissions and councils to advance opportunities to educate students about the Nazis’ murder of 6 million Jews and millions of people with disabilities, homosexuals, and Romani people, among other groups.

Read More: The Holocaust Began Not With Concentration Camps, But With Hateful Rhetoric. That Part of the Story Cannot Be Forgotten

Historically, conservatives and liberals alike have embraced Holocaust education. The 2020 Never Again Education Act passed by a 393-5 vote at the U.S. House of Representatives and unanimously at the U.S. Senate. Further setting Holocaust education up for success, nonprofits ranging from USC’s Shoah Foundation in Los Angeles to the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC, have been supporting teachers for decades. Organization like Pittsburgh-based Classroom Without Borders have taken educators to the sites of Nazi death camps in Eastern Europe. On May 5, March of the Living is sending teachers and students, as well as the chancellors and presidents of SUNY (State University of New York), Towson, and other universities, to Poland. Stateside, 85 Holocaust museums and memorials have hosted countless school field trips.

Yet, Holocaust education has fallen far short even of its fundamental goal to raise awareness. Polls show young Americans lack “basic knowledge” about the Holocaust. About two-thirds know nothing or very little about Auschwitz and grossly underestimate the number of Jewish victims.

Alarming conversations I’ve had with students make it impossible for me to ignore these statistics. Following a university screening of a rough-cut of one of my documentaries, “ Cojot ,” two freshmen sheepishly told me they’d “never heard of this.” I assured them few have heard of French business consultant Michel Cojot’s quest to kill his father’s Nazi executioner.

Shaking their heads, the freshmen said they’d “never heard about any of this.”

They were talking about the Holocaust.

The encounter sent me on a mission of my own: help fulfill Holocaust education’s promise. I started by contemplating what knowledge, insights, and skills their students must obtain to put antisemitism and Islamophobia in the rearview mirror.

A couple of observations informed my thinking about the knowledge part of the equation: Traditional Holocaust education’s emphasis on disseminating historical facts has generated disappointing results and, in the long run, even A-students retain only a fraction of the information they absorb in school. They ofttimes memorize a lesson, regurgitate it on a test, then discard it from their brains.

So I focused on insights and skills, which tend to be stickier. An understanding of how democracies function and malfunction can stay with children and adolescents for life, sharpening their worldview and lending them a moral compass. Critical thinking, fact-finding, and active listening can boost empathy and productive civic discourse, enabling students to better navigate the present, past, and future.

In building this approach, I combined old methods in a new way. For a pedagogical anchor, I turned to practitioner inquiry, also called action research. This well-regarded yet underutilized professional development (PD) mechanism helps K-12 teachers examine and improve their practice. I hypothesized that although it was rarely if ever used in such a way, practitioner inquiry would upgrade Holocaust education when fitted with four lenses: contextual responsiveness, which enables educators to make their lessons relevant to the here and now; trauma-informed, which steers them away from age-inappropriate material and assists them in identifying and coping with trauma in their classrooms and schools; apolitical educational equity, which values every child and adolescent; and asset-based, which directs teachers’ attention to their students and communities’ strengths. 

To test this properly, I founded the nonpartisan, pedagogically orientated Holocaust, Genocide and Human Rights Education Initiative at Penn State . It provides PD programs in five states and counting to K-12 educators, many of whom know what but not how to effectively teach difficult topics.

The first rule of the initiative—to borrow a phrase from David Fincher’s “Fight Club”—is you do not have to talk about the Holocaust. Research my colleagues and I have conducted indicates the effective instruction of any difficult topic, be it slavery or evolution or gender, can get at the Holocaust’s underlying causes.

Participants in the initiative’s programs, who represent various roles, disciplines, and grade levels, choose a difficult topic from their curriculum or community. They learn to teach it confidently by conjuring up compelling questions, finding credible sources, collecting and analyzing data, examining the findings with experts and colleagues, drawing up an implementation plan, and applying it in their classrooms and schools. Thus, they meet their students where they are in authentic ways.

Our participants, who include nearly as many music and biology as social studies and English teachers, empower their students to come up with their own guiding questions and seek the truth and its implications for themselves. To teach in this unconventional manner, educators must shift from acting as sages on the stage to setting the stage for their students’ experiential learning.

This mindset change typically requires a mind-twisting effort. Why would teachers—already overburdened meeting state, district, and parental expectations—add this to their trays? Their motivations range from resetting the tone in their classroom to removing the perception of indoctrination to redefining student success. A longtime elementary school teacher, for instance, aimed to make her Civil War lessons more thought-provoking. “I was interested in ways to help my students think for themselves,” she told me. And a mid-career middle-school teacher sought to instill empathy in her seventh-graders. Referencing Jim Crow and Nazi propaganda, she challenged her students to investigate her thesis that “if you spend enough time talking negatively about people, you start to believe it.”

She tasked her students with logging “everything they said and heard in one day.” The hands-on assignment opened the seventh-graders’ eyes and, eventually, hearts. They reported hearing numerous hurtful judgements and “conversations about fighting,” the middle-school teacher said. “The data collected were overwhelmingly negative.” In the following weeks, the students “wanted to talk about it more” and grew to “understand why they do what they do and reassess what they say about each other.”

Much of K-12 looks far into the future. Ace biology or math now and become a doctor or coder later. Difficult topics inquiry offers students immediately useful takeaways. The empathy and active-listening skills they develop can enrich their inner and social lives. The two-way respect they forge with peers and adults can bolster their communications and self-esteem.

To give students a brighter outlook, individually and collectively, and fortify our democracy, we must reinvent how we teach difficult topics. We must trust students to chart a constructive course for themselves and society. This will forge a sense of control that can propel students on journeys of discovery, during which they learn to conduct primary research, triangulate the information they gather, seek multiple perspectives, and dialogue and debate with classmates. Ultimately, too, it would prompt our next generation to wonder why any student ever chose echo-chamber scorn over face-to-face, heated-yet-respectful civic discourse.

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