examples of expository thesis statements

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Expository Thesis Statements vs. Argumentative Thesis Statements

Fleming, Grace. “How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement.” ThoughtCo, Feb. 11, 2020, thoughtco.com/thesis-statement-examples-and-instruction-1857566.

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.

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This video covers: • Review of Expository Essays and Elements • What a Thesis is • Important parts of a Thesis • Tips for writing a quality thesis

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5 Expository Essay Examples (Full Text with Citations)

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An expository essay attempts to explain a topic in-depth, demonstrating expert knowledge and understanding.

This form of essay is structured around the clear, factual presentation of information, devoid of the writer’s personal opinions or arguments.

The primary goal is to inform or explain rather than persuade.

Unlike an argumentative essay, which is built around defending a particular point of view with evidence and persuasion, an expository essay maintains a neutral stance, focusing on delivering straightforward facts and explanations.

An example of expository writing could be an article explaining the process of photosynthesis.

The article would systematically describe each stage of how plants convert sunlight into energy, detailing the role of sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.

It would explain the sequence of reactions – first, second, third, fourth, fifth – that occur and the importance of each step in supporting the life of the plant.

An expository essay generally follows this essay format:

• A) To persuade the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint
• B) To inform or explain a topic clearly
• C) To present the writer’s personal opinions and arguments
• D) To entertain the reader with creative writing
• A) An expository essay uses creative storytelling techniques
• B) An expository essay remains neutral and avoids personal opinions
• C) An expository essay focuses on persuading the reader with evidence
• D) An expository essay prioritizes the writer’s personal experiences

Expository Essay Examples

#1 impacts of technology on education.

955 words | 4 Pages | 15 References

Thesis Statement: “The integration of technology in education represents a complex and critical area of study crucial for understanding and shaping the future of educational practices.”

#2 Impacts of Globalization on Education

1450 words | 5 Pages | 9 References

Thesis Statement: “This essay examines the profound and multifaceted effects of globalization on education, exploring how technological advancements and policy reforms have transformed access to, delivery of, and perceptions of education.”

#3 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Interpersonal Relationships

1211 Words | 5 Pages | 22 References

Thesis Statement: “The central thesis is that EI, defined as the ability to perceive, understand, and manage emotions, is a crucial determinant of success and well-being.”

#4 The Future of Renewable Energy Sources and Their Impact

870 words | 4 Pages | 20 References

Thesis Statement: “The essay posits that although renewable energy sources hold immense promise for a sustainable future, their full integration into the global energy grid presents significant challenges that must be addressed through technological innovation, economic investment, and policy initiatives.”

#5 The Psychology Behind Consumer Behavior

1053 words | 4 Pages | 17 References

Thesis Statement: “The thesis of this essay is that consumer behavior is not merely a product of rational decision-making; it is deeply rooted in psychological processes, both conscious and subconscious, that drive consumers’ choices and actions.”

How to Write an Expository Essay

Unlike argumentative or persuasive essays, expository essays do not aim to convince the reader of a particular point of view.

Instead, they focus on providing a balanced and thorough explanation of a subject.

Key characteristics of an expository essay include:

• Clarity and Conciseness
• Structured Organization (Introduction, Body, Conclusion)
• Objective Tone
• Evidence-Based (Cite academic sources in every body paragraph)
• Objective thesis statement (see below)
• Informative purpose (Not argumentative)

You can follow my expository essay templates with AI prompts to help guide you through the expository essay writing process:

How to write a Thesis Statement for an Expository Essay

An expository thesis statement doesn’t make an argument or try to persuade. It uses ‘is’ rather than ‘ought’ statements.

Take these comparisons  below. Note how the expository thesis statements don’t prosecute an argument or attempt to persuade, while the argumentative thesis statements clearly take a side on an issue:

💡 AI Prompt for Generating Sample Expository Thesis Statements An expository essay’s thesis statement should be objective rather than argumentative. Write me five broad expository thesis statement ideas on the topic “[TOPIC]”.

Go Deeper: 101 Thesis Statement Examples

Differences Between Expository and Argumentative Essays

Expository and argumentative essays are both common writing styles in academic and professional contexts, but they serve different purposes and follow different structures.

Here are the key differences between them:

• Expository Essay : The primary purpose is to explain, describe, or inform about a topic. It focuses on clarifying a subject or process, providing understanding and insight.
• Argumentative Essay : The goal is to persuade the reader to accept a particular point of view or to take a specific action. It’s about presenting a stance and supporting it with evidence and logic.
• Expository Essay : It maintains a neutral and objective tone. The writer presents information factually and impartially, without expressing personal opinions or biases.
• Argumentative Essay : It often adopts a more assertive, persuasive, and subjective tone. The writer takes a clear position and argues in favor of it, using persuasive language.
• Expository Essay : The reader is expected to gain knowledge, understand a process, or become informed about a topic. There’s no expectation for the reader to agree or disagree.
• Argumentative Essay : The reader is encouraged to consider the writer’s viewpoint, evaluate arguments, and possibly be persuaded to adopt a new perspective or take action.

Go Deeper: Expository vs Argumentative Essays

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Take action! Choose one of the following options to start writing your expository essay now:

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• How to write an expository essay

How to Write an Expository Essay | Structure, Tips & Examples

Published on July 14, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

“Expository” means “intended to explain or describe something.” An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a particular topic, process, or set of ideas. It doesn’t set out to prove a point, just to give a balanced view of its subject matter.

Expository essays are usually short assignments intended to test your composition skills or your understanding of a subject. They tend to involve less research and original arguments than argumentative essays .

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Table of contents

When should you write an expository essay, how to approach an expository essay, introducing your essay, writing the body paragraphs, concluding your essay, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about expository essays.

In school and university, you might have to write expository essays as in-class exercises, exam questions, or coursework assignments.

Sometimes it won’t be directly stated that the assignment is an expository essay, but there are certain keywords that imply expository writing is required. Consider the prompts below.

The word “explain” here is the clue: An essay responding to this prompt should provide an explanation of this historical process—not necessarily an original argument about it.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to define a particular term or concept. This means more than just copying down the dictionary definition; you’ll be expected to explore different ideas surrounding the term, as this prompt emphasizes.

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An expository essay should take an objective approach: It isn’t about your personal opinions or experiences. Instead, your goal is to provide an informative and balanced explanation of your topic. Avoid using the first or second person (“I” or “you”).

The structure of your expository essay will vary according to the scope of your assignment and the demands of your topic. It’s worthwhile to plan out your structure before you start, using an essay outline .

A common structure for a short expository essay consists of five paragraphs: An introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Like all essays, an expository essay begins with an introduction . This serves to hook the reader’s interest, briefly introduce your topic, and provide a thesis statement summarizing what you’re going to say about it.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

The body of your essay is where you cover your topic in depth. It often consists of three paragraphs, but may be more for a longer essay. This is where you present the details of the process, idea or topic you’re explaining.

It’s important to make sure each paragraph covers its own clearly defined topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Different topics (all related to the overall subject matter of the essay) should be presented in a logical order, with clear transitions between paragraphs.

Hover over different parts of the example paragraph below to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

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The conclusion of an expository essay serves to summarize the topic under discussion. It should not present any new information or evidence, but should instead focus on reinforcing the points made so far. Essentially, your conclusion is there to round off the essay in an engaging way.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a conclusion works.

The invention of the printing press was important not only in terms of its immediate cultural and economic effects, but also in terms of its major impact on politics and religion across Europe. In the century following the invention of the printing press, the relatively stationary intellectual atmosphere of the Middle Ages gave way to the social upheavals of the Reformation and the Renaissance. A single technological innovation had contributed to the total reshaping of the continent.

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

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An expository essay is a broad form that varies in length according to the scope of the assignment.

Expository essays are often assigned as a writing exercise or as part of an exam, in which case a five-paragraph essay of around 800 words may be appropriate.

You’ll usually be given guidelines regarding length; if you’re not sure, ask.

An expository essay is a common assignment in high-school and university composition classes. It might be assigned as coursework, in class, or as part of an exam.

Sometimes you might not be told explicitly to write an expository essay. Look out for prompts containing keywords like “explain” and “define.” An expository essay is usually the right response to these prompts.

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

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Thesis Statements - NMU Writing Center

Thesis Statements

General thesis statement tips.

• A thesis statement generally consists of two parts: your topic, and then the analysis, explanation(s), or assertion(s) that you're making about the topic. The kind of thesis statement you write will depend on what kind of paper you're writing.
• In some kinds of writing, such as narratives or descriptive essays, a thesis statement is less important, but you may still want to provide some kind of statement in your first paragraph that helps to guide your reader through your paper.
• A thesis statement is a very specific statement -- it should cover only what you want to discuss in your paper, and be supported with specific evidence. The scope of your paper will be determined by the length of your paper and any other requirements that might be in place.
• Generally, a thesis statement appears at the end of the first paragraph of an essay, so that readers will have a clear idea of what to expect as they read.
• You can think of your thesis as a map or a guide both for yourself and your audience, so it might be helpful to draw a chart or picture of your ideas and how they're connected to help you get started.
• As you write and revise your paper, it's okay to change your thesis statement – sometimes you don't discover what you really want to say about a topic until you've started (or finished) writing.  Just make sure that your final thesis statement accurately shows what will happen in your paper.

Analytical Thesis Statements

In an analytical paper, you are breaking down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluating the issue or idea, and presenting this breakdown and evaluation to your audience. An analytical thesis statement will explain what you are analyzing, the parts of your analysis, and the order in which you will be presenting your analysis.

Example : An analysis of barn owl flight behavior reveals two kinds of flight patterns: patterns related to hunting prey and patterns related to courtship.

A reader who encountered that thesis in a paper would expect an explanation of the analysis of barn owl flight behavior, and then an explanation of the two kinds of flight patterns. Questions to consider when writing an analytical thesis statement:

• What did I analyze?
• What did I discover in my analysis?
• How can I categorize my discoveries?
• In what order should I present my discoveries?

Expository (Explanatory) Thesis Statements

In an expository paper, you are explaining something to your audience. An expository thesis statement will tell your audience:

• what you are going to explain to them
• the categories you are using to organize your explanation
• the order in which you will be presenting your categories

Example : The lifestyles of barn owls include hunting for insects and animals, building nests, and raising their young.

A reader who encountered that thesis would expect the paper to explain how barn owls hunt for insects, build nests, and raise young. Questions to consider when writing an expository thesis statement:

• What am I trying to explain?
• How can I categorize my explanation into different parts?
• In what order should I present the different parts of my explanation?

Argumentative Thesis Statements

In an argumentative paper, you are making a claim about a topic and justifying this claim with reasons and evidence. This claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, a cause-and-effect statement, or an interpretation. However, this claim must be a statement that people could possibly disagree with, because the goal of your paper is to convince your audience that your claim is true based on your presentation of your reasons and evidence. An argumentative thesis statement will tell your audience:

• your claim or assertion
• the reasons/evidence that support this claim
• the order in which you will be presenting your reasons and evidence

  Example : Barn owls' nests should not be eliminated from barns because barn owls help farmers by eliminating insect and rodent pests.

A reader who encountered this thesis would expect to be presented with an argument and evidence that farmers should not get rid of barn owls when they find them nesting in their barns. Questions to consider when writing an argumentative thesis statement:

• What is my claim or assertion?
• What are the reasons I have to support my claim or assertion?
• In what order should I present my reasons?

* Remember that a good thesis statement in any type of paper takes a stand and is specific.  Avoid vague language or simply stating an obvious fact.  For example, you would not want your thesis to be: "Barn owls live in barns."

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How to Write a Thesis Statement–Examples

What is a thesis statement? A thesis statement summarizes the main idea of a paper or an essay. Similar to the statement of the problem in research, it prepares the reader for what is to come and ties together the evidence and examples that are presented and the arguments and claims that are made later. 

A good thesis statement can provoke thought, arouse interest, and is always followed up by exactly what it promises—if the focus or direction of your essay changes over time, you should go back to your statement and adapt it as well so that it clearly reflects what you are explaining or discussing. 

Where does the thesis statement go in my paper?

Your thesis statement should be placed near the end of your introduction—after you have given the reader some background and before you delve into the specific evidence or arguments that support your statement.

Can you give me a thesis statement template?

Depending on the type of essay you are writing, your thesis statement will look different. The important thing is that your statement is specific and clearly states the main idea you want to get across. In the following, we will discuss different types of statements, show you a simple 4-step process for writing an effective thesis statement, and finish off with some not-so-good and good thesis statement examples.

Table of Contents:

• Types of Thesis Statements
• How to Write a Thesis Statement Step by Step 
• Not-So-Good and Good Thesis Statements 

Types of Thesis Statements 

Depending on whether your paper is analytical, expository, or argumentative, your statement has a slightly different purpose. 

Analytical thesis statements

An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its components, evaluates the pieces, and presents an evaluation of this breakdown to the reader. Such papers can analyze art, music, literature, current or historical events, political ideas, or scientific research. An analytical thesis statement is therefore often the result of such an analysis of, for example, some literary work (“Heathcliff is meant to be seen as a hero rather than a horrible person”) or a process (“the main challenge recruiters face is the balance between selecting the best candidates and hiring them before they are snatched up by competitors”), or even the latest research (“starving yourself will increase your lifespan, according to science”). In the rest of the paper, you then need to explain how you did the analysis that led you to the stated result and how you arrived at your conclusion, by presenting data and evidence.

Expository thesis statements

An expository (explanatory) paper explains something to the audience, such as a historical development, a current phenomenon, or the effect of political intervention. A typical explanatory thesis statement is therefore often a “topic statement” rather than a claim or actual thesis. An expository essay could, for example, explain “where human rights came from and how they changed the world,” or “how students make career choices.” The rest of the paper then needs to present the reader with all the relevant information on the topic, covering all sides and aspects rather than one specific viewpoint.

Argumentative thesis statements

An argumentative paper makes a clear and potentially very subjective claim and follows up with a justification based on evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that the author’s claim is true. A thesis statement for such a paper could be that “every student should be required to take a gap year after high school to gain some life experience”, or that “vaccines should be mandatory”. Argumentative thesis statements can be bold, assertive, and one-sided—you have the rest of the paper to convince the reader that you have good reasons to think that way and that maybe they should think like that, too.

How to Write a Thesis Statement Step-by-Step 

If you are not quite sure how you get from a topic to a thesis statement, then follow this simple process—but make sure you know what type of essay you are supposed to write and adapt the steps to the kind of statement you need. 

First , you will have to select a topic . This might have been done for you already if you are writing an essay as part of a class. If not, then make sure you don’t start too general—narrow the subject down to a specific aspect that you can cover in an essay. 

Second , ask yourself a question about your topic, one that you are personally interested in or one that you think your readers might find relevant or interesting. Here, you have to consider whether you are going to explain something to the reader (expository essay) or if you want to put out your own, potentially controversial, opinion and then argue for it in the rest of your (argumentative) essay.

Third , answer the question you raised for yourself, based on the material you have already sifted through and are planning to present to the reader or the opinion you have already formed on the topic. If your opinion changes while working on your essay, which happens quite often, then make sure you come back to this process and adapt your statement.

Fourth and last, reword the answer to your question into a concise statement . You want the reader to know exactly what is coming, and you also want to make it sound as interesting as possible so that they decide to keep reading.

Let’s look at this example process to give you a better idea of how to get from your topic to your statement. Note that this is the development of a thesis statement for an argumentative essay .

• Choose a specific topic: Covid-19 vaccines 

Narrow it down to a specific aspect: opposition to Covid-19 vaccines

• Ask a question: Should vaccination against Covid-19 be mandatory?     
• Answer the question for yourself, by sorting through the available evidence/arguments:

Yes: vaccination protects other, more vulnerable people; vaccination reduces the spread of the disease; herd immunity will allow societies to go back to normal…

No: vaccines can have side-effects in some people; the vaccines have been developed too fast and there might be unknown risks; the government should stay out of personal decisions on people’s health…

• Form your opinion and reword it into your thesis statement that represents a very short summary of the key points you base your claim on:

While there is some hesitancy around vaccinations against Covid-19, most of the presented arguments revolve around unfounded fears and the individual freedom to make one’s own decisions. Since that freedom is offset by the benefits of mass vaccination, governments should make vaccines mandatory to help societies get back to normal.

This is a good argumentative thesis statement example because it does not just present a fact that everybody knows and agrees on, but a claim that is debatable and needs to be backed up by data and arguments, which you will do in the rest of your essay. You can introduce whatever evidence and arguments you deem necessary in the following—but make sure that all your points lead back to your core claim and support your opinion. This example also answers the question “how long should a thesis statement be?” One or two sentences are generally enough. If your statement is longer, make sure you are not using vague, empty expressions or more words than necessary .

Good and Bad Thesis Statement Examples

Not-so-good thesis statement : Everyone should get vaccinated against Covid-19.

Problem: The statement does not specify why that might be relevant or why people might not want to do it—this is too vague to spark anyone’s interest.

Good : Since the risks of the currently available Covid-19 vaccines are minimal and societal interests outweigh individual freedom, governments should make Covid-19 vaccination mandatory.

Not-so-good thesis statement : Binge drinking is bad for your health.

Problem: This is a very broad statement that everyone can agree on and nobody needs to read an article on. You need to specify why anyone would not think that way.

Good : Binge drinking has become a trend among college students. While some argue that it might be better for your health than regular consumption of low amounts of alcohol, science says otherwise.

Not-so-good thesis statement : Learning an instrument can develop a child’s cognitive abilities.

Problem: This is a very weak statement—”can” develop doesn’t tell us whether that is what happens in every child, what kind of effects of music education on cognition we can expect, and whether that has or should have any practical implications. 

Good thesis statement : Music education has many surprising benefits on children’s overall development, including effects on language acquisition, coordination, problem-solving, and even social skills.

You could now present all the evidence on the specific effects of music education on children’s specific abilities in the rest of your (expository) essay. You could also turn this into an argumentative essay, by adding your own opinion to your statement:

Good thesis statement : Considering the many surprising benefits that music education has on children’s overall development, every child should be given the opportunity to learn an instrument as part of their public school education.

Not-so-good thesis statement : Outer space exploration is a waste of money.

Problem: While this is a clear statement of your personal opinion that people could potentially disagree with (which is good for an argumentative thesis statement), it lacks context and does not really tell the reader what to expect from your essay.

Good thesis statement : Instead of wasting money on exploring outer space, people like Elon Musk should use their wealth to solve poverty, hunger, global warming, and other issues we are facing on this earth.

Get Professional Thesis Editing Services

Now that you know how to write the perfect thesis statement for your essay, you might be interested in our Wordvice AI Proofreader . And after drafting your academic papers, be sure to get proofreading that includes manuscript editing , thesis editing , or dissertation editing services before submitting your work to journals for publication.

We have many more articles for you on all aspects of academic writing , tips and tricks on how to avoid common grammar mistakes , and resources on how to strengthen your writing style in general.

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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

Strong Thesis Statement for Expository Essays [Examples and Formula]

A strong thesis statement is the backbone of any well-written expository essay. It provides a clear roadmap for the direction of your essay and sets the tone for what’s to come. 

In this blog post, we want to make it super easy for you. We will explore some (good and bad) examples of thesis statements for expository essays. By the time you finish, you will walk out with a clear understanding and a formula you can use to craft your own effective statement.

What is an expository essay?

An expository essay is a type of writing that explains, informs, or describes a subject in detail. It is a neutral and objective piece of writing that presents a balanced analysis of a topic, backed up by facts and evidence. The purpose of an expository essay is to inform the reader on a specific subject matter, without the writer’s personal opinion or bias.

Differentiating different types of thesis statements

An expository thesis statement presents a neutral explanation of a topic or issue, usually with the aim of informing the reader. It presents a fact-based and balanced view without involving the writer’s opinion. Example: “The impact of social media on teenagers will be analyzed through a review of relevant studies.”

An argumentative thesis statement , on the other hand, should take a stance on a topic and argues for or against it. It presents the writer’s opinion and aims to persuade the reader. Example: “The excessive use of social media by teenagers is harmful and should be limited.”

An analytical thesis statement presents an analysis of a topic, breaking it down into its component parts and examining them in detail. It aims to provide a deeper understanding of the topic. Example: “The increasing popularity of social media among teenagers can be attributed to its convenience and ease of use, but also raises concerns about privacy and online safety.”

More on thesis statements

What does a strong expository thesis statement do in an essay.

A thesis statement, as you may already know, is the most important sentence for your paper. You can think of it as an annotated map for your audience. This can make sure your readers can follow in the direction you want to go to. 

A strong expository thesis statement sets the tone for a well-organized and well-supported essay, providing direction, clarity, and focus for the reader as well as the writer.

An expository thesis statement should sound neutral

One thing that distinguishes an expository thesis statement from its counterparts (e.g. argumentative or analytical thesis statement) is that it should not be debatable. 

Expository essays aim to provide neutral, objective information and analysis about a subject. The thesis statement should simply state the main argument or point of the essay in a clear and concise manner. It should not express a personal opinion or attempt to persuade the reader to a particular point of view. Instead, the focus is on presenting balanced and evidence-based information about the subject.

What makes a strong expository thesis statement?

Writing a strong thesis statement takes some practice. And it is not as hard as it seems. A strong expository thesis statement has the following characteristics:

Let’s go through these points with some good and bad examples.

A strong thesis statement should be clear and concise, expressing the main argument in a single sentence.

Bad Example: “Technology is a complicated thing that affects our lives in many ways.”

Good Example: “The widespread use of technology has had a significant impact on our daily lives, both positively and negatively.”

The bad example is not clear and concise, as it uses vague language and makes a general statement without a clear focus. The good example, on the other hand, is clear and concise, presenting a specific and focused argument.

2. Specificity

A strong thesis statement should be specific and focused, avoiding generalizations or vague language.

Bad Example: “Education is important.”

Good Example: “A solid education system is crucial for the development of a country’s economy and the success of its citizens.”

3. Relevance

Your thesis statement should be relevant to the topic and supports the main argument of the essay.

Bad Example: “Music is a form of art.”

4. Evidence-based (as opposed to an argument)

A strong expository thesis statement needs to be supported by facts and evidence that will be discussed in the essay.

The bad example is not evidence-based, as it makes a statement without supporting it with facts or evidence. The good example, on the other hand, presents an argument that can be supported by evidence that will be discussed in the essay.

5. Neutral (without taking any stand)

This is specific to expository thesis statements. It should not express personal opinions or bias, but rather presents neutral information about the subject.

Good Example: “The existence of climate change is a highly debated and controversial issue, with compelling arguments on both sides.”

In summary, a strong expository thesis statement is clear, specific, relevant, evidence-based, and neutral, providing a roadmap for the essay and setting the tone for the information that will be presented.

How to create a strong thesis statement for an expository thesis statement?

Creating a strong thesis statement for an expository essay requires careful research, analysis, and refinement to ensure that it is clear, specific, relevant, evidence-based, and neutral.

Step 1 : Identify the topic: Start by understanding what the essay will be about and what the main argument will be.

Step 2 : Gather information: Research the topic and gather the information that supports the main argument.

Step 4 : Create the thesis statement: Ensure it is neutral and evidence-based: Make sure the thesis statement presents neutral information that can be supported by evidence that will be discussed in the essay.

Step 5: Refine the thesis statement: Review the working thesis statement and make changes to ensure that it is clear, specific, and relevant.

A formula for creating a strong expository thesis statement

No worries. Here’s a formula you can use to create a strong thesis statement for an expository essay:

[Main idea/topic] + [purpose/aim of the essay] + [evidence/support for the main idea]

= a strong expository thesis statement.

Final thoughts and recommendations

There you have it! Remember, a strong expository thesis statement should always be neutral and evidence-based. So take a deep breath and trust yourself in crafting a strong thesis statement for your expository essay!

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.

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How to Write an Expository Essay: Types, Tips, and Topics

by Yen Cabag | 6 comments

Writing essays is an important skill for students of all ages, from third graders to degree-seekers. The more adept you become at writing an essay, the better your chances of getting a higher grade or getting into the best schools.

But even in the workforce, having advanced research and reporting skills can be a significant advantage, since your supervisor may ask you to write up reports or present your research on a given topic.

Different kinds of essays require different kinds of content. To review, the most common types of essays include: 

• Descriptive
• Expository 
• Argumentative 

In this article, we will be taking a close look at expository essays. (To learn about establishing background information in a story, check out our post on narrative exposition .)

What Is an Expository Essay? 

An expository essay is a type of essay wherein the writer investigates and expounds on an idea, evaluates evidence, and presents an argument about that idea in a clear and concise manner.

The word expository comes from exposition , the noun form of “expose,” which means to uncover something to let others know what it is. 

6 Types of Expository Essays

Expository essays can come in many different forms, depending on the goal of the writer: do you intend to explain something, or to show how one thing is better than another? Are you tasked with explaining how something works or how to make something? 

Here are the most common types of expository essays: 

Descriptive or Definition Essays

This type of expository essay is meant to describe a place, an experience, or a concept by appealing to the senses. The topic might be anything from a concrete object like an animal, city, or tree, or it can also be an abstract idea, such as relationships, love, or freedom. 

This type of essay can include a discussion of the literal definition of the topic, as well as what it connotes or the ideas that the word might bring to a person’s mind. 

Procedure or “How-To” Essays

This type of essay explains the process of doing or making something. An effective way of doing this is to include the steps that the reader can take. 

This can include the following topics: 

• scientific processes, like a laboratory experiment
• life skills, such as cooking, baking, repairing, or creating something
• natural processes, like the metamorphosis of animals and insects
• mechanical or technological processes, like how a piano or a computer works 

Comparison Essays

This essay compares and contrasts at least two different things, places, people, or ideas. This includes highlighting their similarities, as well as illustrating their differences. 

A good way of writing this type of essay is to pick themes around which to make your comparisons. For example, in comparing two cities for livability, you may want to compare populations, the quality of available schools, accessibility and convenience, or pollution and stress levels, among other factors. 

Cause-and-Effect Essays

This essay attempts to uncover the relationship between two objects, with the goal of determining whether one thing causes another.

You may need to provide supporting evidence to demonstrate the cause and effect relationship between the two ideas.

Problem/Solution Essays

This type of essay presents a problem and offers a possible solution. 

The best way to write this type of essay is by offering several potential solutions. Then, highlight the pros and cons of each.

Based on those pros and cons, present your personal recommendations for the reader, while still leaving room for the reader to decide for themselves. 

Alternatively, a problem/solution essay may also have only one solution, and in this case, the reader does not need to make a choice.  

How to Write an Expository Essay

You can write an expository essay using the following steps. 

1. Define your thesis statement. 

Because an expository essay generally goes in-depth on a given subject, it’s important that you specify your thesis statement from the get-go. State it in a clear and concise manner in the first paragraph of your essay. 

If you are given free rein to choose your topic, use this time to brainstorm possible ideas and choose one that you are genuinely interested in. This will make the process of researching and writing more engaging for you. 

Defining your thesis statement will also let you decide on the type of expository essay you will write. 

2. Research on your topic and take notes. 

Remember that your expository essay needs relevant facts and support to get your point across to your audience. Research as much as possible, collecting the relevant details in bullet points that you take while reading. 

3. Outline your essay. 

From your bullet point notes, organize your findings. Form a logical sequence of headings that you can later expand. 

A good outline will include the following: 

• Introduction
• Body paragraphs
• Conclusion 

The body of your essay can be anywhere from 2-3 paragraphs to several paragraphs long. As you compose your outline, write down the different headings for your paragraphs so you can see exactly how each one transitions into the next. 

4. Write your first draft. 

Start with an introduction, where you include your thesis statement. Then, write a sentence that transitions logically into your body paragraphs.

Important: For the body of your essay, remember to include evidential support. 

Because an expository essay expounds on your thesis statement, it’s crucial that you include evidence to prove your point. Undeniable facts will back up whatever point you’re making in the essay, rather than a flimsy argument that can easily be dismantled. Your evidential support can come in different ways:

• Factual: Actual facts and can help prove your point. Citing academic sources for those facts will help establish your credibility.
• Logical: Arguments based on logic are formed when you deduce something from given information. 
• Statistical: Statistical evidence supports your claim based on research conducted by others, or by a survey that you yourself perform. 
• Anecdotal: A qualitative real-life story may also help to support your claim. 

Include as much evidence as you can to support your thesis statement. But remember to keep your writing clear and well-directed by focusing on one key idea per paragraph.

Finally, state your conclusion, and restate your thesis to remind your readers of your essay’s purpose.

5. Refine your work. 

After you write your first draft, carefully review and proofread your work . Check that your points make sense, and ask yourself whether the current layout is the best, most logical way to present your information.

If you find any paragraphs that do not connect well, either rewrite more effective transitional sentences or find a more suitable place for the paragraph. 

Writing Expository Essays 

Writing expository essays is a great practice in critical thinking. Not only will you learn important research skills, but you will also be able to gather evidence in support of your claims.

For more writing tips, check out our guides on how to write an essay and how to write a research paper to refine your expository and persuasive writing skills.

Did you find post essay helpful? Let us know in the comments below!

If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:

• How to Write an Essay: 7 Steps for Clear, Effective Writing
• How to Write a Thesis Statement
• How to Write a Hook: 10 Ways to Capture Your Readers’ Attention
• How to Write a Research Paper: The Complete Guide for Students

Yen Cabag is the Blog Writer of TCK Publishing. She is also a homeschooling mom, family coach, and speaker for the Charlotte Mason method, an educational philosophy that places great emphasis on classic literature and the masterpieces in art and music. She has also written several books, both fiction and nonfiction. Her passion is to see the next generation of children become lovers of reading and learning in the midst of short attention spans.

This is good to learn how to outline, therm, main point and Minor points. Thanks very much

You’re very welcome, Nicholas! We’re glad you found the post helpful :)

Thanks it really help me

A comprehensive and useful guide to writing an expository essay. I appreciate what you have posted on the blog. It’s very insightful and helpful.

Thanks Anna, we’re glad you found it helpful! :)

This is very helpful to write an excellent expository essay with your guide.Thankyou for your good work, your highly appreciated.

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How to Write Essay Thesis Statement: A Comprehensive Analysis

In academic writing, creating an impactful text that can deftly relay your opinion and persuade your audience is one of the key skills. That’s why it is essential to learn how to write a strong thesis statement. In this article, you will find all you need to know for creating a persuasive thesis statement.

What is an essay thesis?

In academic essays, a thesis is a part of the introduction that expresses the main idea and purpose of the essay. It aims to give the audience a brief overview of the contents of the essay, the author’s position, and potential line of argument.

A thesis statement in essay writing is an essential part that cannot be omitted. Apart from introducing the main idea of the essay, the thesis gives directions to authors and helps them not stray from the topic at hand.

As for the thesis statement layout, it usually appears at the end of the introduction, giving the author an opportunity to start their line of reasoning.

Types of essay thesis

Depending on the type of your essay, the contents and intent of your thesis statement can also vary. Let’s explore the main differences and functions of thesis statements in various essays.

• Argumentative thesis statement . This is probably the most well-known type of persuasive essay thesis statements. It introduces a certain position about a topic and hints at the line of support and evidence that will follow in the main body of the essay. An argumentative thesis consists of a topic, an author’s position, and brief mentions of the author’s arguments. Example: Prioritizing ocean exploration over space exploration is essential because the oceans are home to natural resources that could significantly contribute to global food security and economic development.
• Expository thesis statement . Unlike the aforementioned type, an expository thesis aims to give readers an explanation of what is going to be discussed. It is fairly objective and should not include an author’s opinion. This thesis type consists of a topic followed by several categories which will be used to extrapolate on the topic later. Example: Sunbathing can have both beneficial and harmful effects on human skin, including the synthesis of vitamin D, the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and an increased chance of developing skin cancer.
• Analytical thesis statement . This essay thesis type introduces the results of your analysis. It gives readers an idea of the conclusions of your analytical research and encourages them to read and see how you arrived at these conclusions. An analytical thesis typically includes a topic, the object of your analysis, and a conclusion. Example: The extinction of mammoths can be attributed to habitat loss caused by post-Ice Age climate changes and the pressure from human hunting .

As you can see, the contents of your essay thesis depend on what your essay aims to achieve. Understanding the different types of thesis statements helps you craft a clear and effective argument that suits your essay’s purpose and audience.

How to write a strong thesis statement

A thesis statement is the key to creating a perfect essay because the main body of your paper depends on it. Let’s explore what you should do to craft a persuasive thesis statement.

1. Do your research

Researching your essay topic is important to provide a good line of reasoning. But it is also essential for writing an essay thesis. Without understanding the topic, you cannot come up with a clear idea of how to build your essay or what exactly you are going to argue for or against.

2. Determine the type of your paper

The type of your essay affects how you should build your thesis. If you need to write a neutral overview of some issue, then you should go for an expository thesis statement. But if you aim to give your opinion and defend it, an argumentative thesis is your way.

3. Formulate the thesis

The easiest way to come up with a thesis is the question-answer method. First, ask yourself a question about the essay topic. If the topic is AI technologies, your question can be, “Can AI technologies replace humans?”

Then, you should answer this question. Make sure your answer is direct, clear, and concise. But don’t make it too broad since you have to cover it comprehensively within the scope of your paper. So, the answer to the question above should look like “AI technologies will not fully replace humans due to the irreplaceable value of human creativity, emotional intelligence, and complex decision-making abilities.” This answer will become your essay thesis statement.

4. Give specific examples

You can use the thesis statement as a sneak peak into the contents of your paper. Indicate the key points you will discuss in your essay to support your thesis. For instance, if your essay is about mitigating stress, give a brief overview of what you plan to cover in your paper: “Effective stress mitigation techniques include regular physical exercise, mindfulness practices like meditation, and a strong social support network for emotional well-being.”

5. Make changes if needed

As you begin to write the main part of your paper, you might find out that your initial essay thesis is weak or untrue. If it happens, you shouldn’t go against common sense to try making it work. Go back to the beginning and use the new-found knowledge to come up with another, more suitable thesis statement that better reflects the issues at hand.

With this guide, you will be able to come up with a persuasive thesis statement in no time. And if you still have trouble writing a strong thesis, you can use AI-generator Aithor to help you find the perfect thesis for your academic paper.

Summary: Thesis statement in essay

A thesis statement is an essential element in any essay. It provides an introduction into the topic of a paper and the claims the writer intends to prove. A strong thesis statement should be specific, clear, concise, and give the audience a brief overview of an essay’s contents.

Try using AI-generator Aithor and come up with a persuasive thesis statement in mere seconds.

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What is the thesis statement? When it comes to writing an essay , there are many things that we must take into consideration in order to create a well-written and respected piece of work. One such thing is the thesis statement. Every good essay should have one and it needs to be well-written and well-thought-out. In this article, we are going to be looking at exactly what a thesis statement is and what it is used for as well as looking at some examples of the thesis statement as a way to gain a greater understanding of what its function is.

A thesis statement plays a crucial role in any well-crafted essay, as it helps both the writer and the reader establish the central point of the paper. Typically found near the end of the introduction, this sentence succinctly conveys the main idea the writer intends to communicate throughout the essay. Crafting a strong thesis statement increases the likelihood that the resulting essay will be cohesive, persuasive, and engaging for the audience.

Creating an effective thesis statement can, at times, be a challenging process. One useful method is to begin by exploring examples that illustrate the various ways in which thesis statements can be constructed, depending on the type of essay or paper being written. Studying these examples can help budding writers grasp the principles behind crafting compelling thesis statements, and serve as inspiration for their own work.

What Is A Thesis Statement?

Definition and purpose.

In the most simple terms, a thesis statement is a short statement that provides insight into what the essay is going to be about. They are used to enlighten the audience on a variety of things, including:

• The main argument or point to be discussed.
• The purpose of the essay.
• The point of view of the author on a specific topic.

A thesis statement is a sentence that encapsulates the central point or main idea of a paper or essay. It is typically found near the end of the introduction and serves as a guide to the reader, outlining the writer’s stance on the topic. The thesis statement not only answers the question asked but also acts as a roadmap for the paper, indicating what the reader can expect throughout the rest of the paper.

The purpose of a thesis statement is two-fold:

• To convey a clear and concise argument or position on the topic.
• To inspire further discussion and responses from the audience.

It’s crucial for a thesis statement to be focused, specific, and arguable. A strong thesis is easy to understand and provides a solid foundation for supporting evidence within the paper.

Types of Thesis Statements

Argumentative thesis statement.

An argumentative thesis statement is a claim that takes a strong position on an issue. This type of thesis statement aims to persuade the reader to accept the writer’s viewpoint by presenting logical reasoning and supporting evidence. It is essential to have a clear and concise argumentative thesis statement to guide the rest of the essay.

For example: “ Public transportation should be free in metropolitan areas to reduce carbon emissions and economic inequalities.”

Expository Essay Thesis Statement

An expository essay thesis statement highlights a specific issue or fact that the writer will explain or analyze throughout the essay. This type of thesis should be informative and objective, without taking a strong stance on the issue.

For example: “ High-level competitive athletes face numerous physical, mental, and emotional challenges throughout their careers. ”

Persuasive Thesis Statement

A persuasive thesis statement is similar to an argumentative thesis statement, but it aims to convince the reader to take action or adopt the writer’s viewpoint through emotional appeal and relatable examples. The persuasive thesis statement should be thought-provoking and debatable.

For example: “ Animal shelters should require background checks and home visits to ensure responsible pet adoption and prevent animal abuse. ”

Compare and Contrast Thesis Statement

A compare-and-contrast thesis statement sets the stage for an essay comparing or contrasting two or more subjects. This type of thesis statement may highlight similarities, differences, or a mix of both. It is crucial to establish a basis for comparison to provide a clear focus for the essay.

For example: “ While both public and private universities offer a variety of educational opportunities, the differences in cost, class size, and campus environment directly impact a student’s experience .”

By understanding and applying these types of thesis statements, writers can effectively tailor their essays’ tone and focus to suit their specific purpose and audience.

How Is A Thesis Statement Used?

As we mentioned a thesis statement is used to point out the main argument of the essay. There are certain rules that should be followed by the thesis statement. Let’s take a look at these in a little more detail.

• A thesis statement should appear in the introduction of the essay to layout the main topic and the author’s stance on it. It should also appear in the conclusion of the essay, where the author can refer back to it.
• A thesis statement should be a short statement of only one or two sentences that delivers clear and concise information.
• The thesis statement will directly answer the main question posed by the essay, for example, if the essay question were ‘What is the biggest tourist attraction in France?’ The thesis statement might directly reply to this with ‘With over 6 million visitors each year, the Eiffel Tower is clearly the biggest tourist attraction in France.’ If the essay topic doesn’t contain a question, you can fashion one yourself.
• Many people use the ‘so what?’ technique when writing a thesis statement. If a reader is likely to think ‘so what?’ when starting your essay, you can use the thesis statement to form a relationship and a connection to the issue that will engage the reader and make them care about what is going to be talked about.
• Similarly to the above point, a thesis statement should answer why or how questions that the reader may have. Look again at the example of the Eiffel Tower, the statement clearly shows the reader why the tower is the biggest tourist attraction in France using real statistics that cannot be ignored. But in the same breath, gives the reader the chance to dispute the information. This is another key point to the thesis statement. A reader should be able to look at the thesis statement and disagree with it, this might encourage them to research the topic themselves.
• A thesis statement should agree with the body of the essay. If it does not, then it should be amended. Using the example of the French tourist attraction once again, the body of that essay would need to go into further detail about the tourist attractions in France and further prove why the Eiffel Tower is the most popular.

Creating a Strong Thesis Statement

Identifying your topic and scope.

When creating a strong thesis statement, it is essential to first identify your topic and the scope of your paper. You should consider the central idea you want to communicate and its impact on your field of study, whether it’s art, education, or environmental studies. A solid thesis statement should focus on a single aspect of your research, avoiding general terms or abstractions. Keep it clear and specific to ensure it effectively guides both you and the reader through your argument.

Forming a Debatable Claim

An argumentative thesis statement should present a debatable claim, one that reasonable people could disagree with. This means that it should not merely be a statement of fact, but rather an assertion that invites different opinions. For example, a debatable claim on nationalism could be, “Nationalism contributed to the rise of populism in the 21st century.” This claim allows for various arguments, opinions, and contextual interpretations.

Providing Evidence

A strong thesis statement should also set the stage for presenting evidence supporting your claim. In a research paper, this means providing an overview of the key elements and sources you will use to build your argument. For an argumentative essay, be prepared to provide well-researched and detailed evidence to back up your claim, whether it’s regarding renewable energy sources, the history of race and gender, or the role of nationalism in shaping global politics.

Here are some tips to help you write a strong thesis statement:

• Make sure it’s clear and concise, typically consisting of one or two sentences.
• Ensure that it’s focused and specific enough to be “proven” within the boundaries of your paper.
• Position it near the end of your essay’s introduction or within the first paragraph.

By following these guidelines and being mindful of your topic, scope, and evidence, you will be able to craft a powerful thesis statement that engages your audience and sets the stage for a successful research or argumentative paper.

Explore more: How To Write A Thesis Statement

Thesis Statement Examples

Argumentative thesis examples.

An argumentative thesis aims to establish a position and persuade the reader with evidence and reasoning. Examples include:

• Though populism may fundamentally challenge traditional political structures, its effects on social and economic policies are necessary for a more equitable society.
• Social media platforms are responsible for the increasing polarization of opinions and must adopt measures to limit the spread of misinformation.

Expository Essay Thesis Examples

An expository essay thesis presents facts, evidence, or an explanation without taking a persuasive stance. Examples include:

• The process of photosynthesis is fundamental to the survival of plants and the ecosystems they support, providing energy for growth and reproduction.
• Urbanization has led to numerous social, economic, and environmental consequences, including increased housing demand, traffic congestion, and pollution.

Persuasive Thesis Examples

A persuasive thesis seeks to convince the reader of a particular argument or opinion. Examples include:

• The benefits of implementing a universal basic income outweigh the potential drawbacks, as it can alleviate poverty and provide residents with more financial security.
• Investing in renewable energy sources is essential for combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for subsequent generations.

Compare and Contrast Thesis Examples

A compare and contrast thesis highlights the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. Examples include:

• While both traditional and online education offer unique advantages and challenges, the flexibility and accessibility of online learning make it a more suitable option for students juggling work and personal responsibilities.
• Despite similarities in their genre and themes, the novels “Pride and Prejudice” and “Wuthering Heights” differ significantly in their narrative styles and characterization.

Using these examples, you can create strong thesis statements tailored to your essay’s specific topic and goals. Remember to provide a clear and concise thesis that effectively showcases your argument, opinion, or comparison in a confident, knowledgeable, and neutral tone.

Thesis Statement Examples: Issues to Consider

Impact on society.

When creating a thesis statement, it’s essential to consider the potential impacts on society. The chosen topic may address issues such as education, war, and nationalism. For example, the thesis statement might analyze the effects of changing educational policies on different classes of society. This could include exploring access to education for low-income households or the impact of privatization on public schools. It is crucial to examine how the thesis topic relates to societal issues and incorporates them into the statement.

Related: Social Issues

Race, Gender, and Class

It is important to address issues related to race, gender, and class when developing thesis statements. For instance, research papers might examine inequalities in the workplace or disparities in access to resources. Such studies should think about context and historical background, comparing and contrasting the experiences of different groups. Here are some examples.

• Gender : An examination of the gender pay gap across various industries
• Race : A comparison of racial profiling incidents in law enforcement across different communities
• Class : Exploring the impact of socio-economic status on healthcare access and outcomes

Consider using tables and bullet points to help present data and findings more effectively.

Environmental Concerns

Lastly, incorporating environmental concerns into thesis statements is essential, especially in today’s world, where sustainability and environmental protection are vital. Research papers might address issues such as pollution, waste management, or the effects of climate change on marginalized communities. For example, a thesis statement could focus on exploring the consequences of a specific eco-friendly initiative in a local community, or how environmental policies have evolved over time.

Keep in mind to maintain a confident, knowledgeable, neutral, and clear tone of voice throughout the section, focusing on accurate information and avoiding exaggerated or false claims.

Examples of Thesis Statements in Different Essay Types

In a narrative essay , the thesis statement revolves around the story being told. It is typically centered on a specific event, person, or experience that had a significant impact on the writer. The thesis statement in a narrative essay serves as a brief preview of what the reader can expect. It should provide some insight into the writer’s personal connection to the topic and help set the stage for the narrative to unfold.

For example:

The moment she won the lottery, Mary’s life changed forever, teaching her the importance of cherishing every moment with her loved ones.

An analytical essay breaks down a topic into its main components and presents an evaluation or interpretation of the topic based on those components. The thesis statement in an analytical essay should clearly state the issue or idea that will be analyzed and its essential elements. This type of statement should provide enough information to guide the reader through the essay and highlight the central points of analysis.

By examining the symbolism, characterization, and theme of “The Great Gatsby,” it becomes evident that Fitzgerald uses these techniques to criticize the American Dream’s materialism and superficiality.

Argumentative

In an argumentative essay , the thesis statement takes a clear, definitive stance on a specific issue or question. This type of thesis statement aims to persuade readers of the writer’s viewpoint and provide logical and supporting evidence to back up the claim. The thesis should be concise, specific, and controversial enough to encourage debate from various perspectives.

Although some people argue that video games can be beneficial, this essay will demonstrate that excessive video gaming is linked to increased violent behavior, addiction, and social isolation, and therefore requires stricter regulation.

Cause and Effect

A cause-and-effect essay explores the relationship between certain events, actions, or conditions and their respective outcomes. The thesis statement in a cause-and-effect essay should establish the connection between the cause and the effect, asserting a causal connection between the two. This type of thesis statement should present a clear, coherent structure to guide the reader through the essay and should establish the relationship between the cause and the effect.

The widespread use of smartphones has led to increased incidents of sleep deprivation among teenagers, resulting in declining academic performance, mood disorders, and health issues.

These are examples of how thesis statements can vary based on the type of essay and showcase the importance of tailoring the thesis statement to fit the specific requirements of each essay style.

More Thesis Statement Examples

Now that we are clear on what a thesis statement is and how it can be used, we are going to take a look at some examples of strong and effective thesis statements. This will give you a better idea on what they should contain and how they function within an essay.

American Education

The American education system has been evolving, and it is essential to have a clear thesis statement when discussing the topic. Here’s an example:

The integration of technology in American schools has significantly enhanced the learning experience of students, resulting in improved academic performance.

In this example, it highlights the positive impact of technology on the education system. It also provides a concise view that can be explored and supported through research and relevant statistics.

Internet and Society

The internet has changed the way society functions in various capacities. Here is a thesis statement example that can be used to discuss the relationship between the internet and society:

The widespread use of the internet has drastically altered societal interactions, affecting the population’s ability to communicate, access information, and maintain personal privacy.

This statement outlines the primary effects of the internet on society and can be further developed through specific examples and analysis. This statement can be supported through studies, data, and real-life cases that demonstrate the impact of the internet on communication, information access, and privacy concerns.

List of Thesis Statement Examples

• Owing to the fact that many children are not being vaccinated because of illness, it is now imperative that we make it a requirement that healthy children are vaccinated in order to stop the spread of disease.
• For families on a low income, schools should provide basic equipment such as pens, calculators and laptops.
• Whilst school uniforms are expensive, they do provide security and a sense of belonging to students and for this reason, are an integral part of the school system.
• Many public libraries are closing down due to lack of interest but these are important resources within the community and we should fight to keep them open.
• With the internet becoming ever more popular and accessible to teenagers, cyber bullying is massively on the rise. A large number of cyber bullying cases end in suicide and it is down to parents and schools to tackle this growing problem.
• Cannabis is not legal in many countries and states and this is for good reason. The drug is known to diminish the brain cells and regardless of how it might relax pain and anxiety, it should not be legalised.
• Too many people are taking time of work for stress-related reasons and so it is more important than ever for workplaces to provide internal activities to combat this problem.
• Many parents do not like the idea of their children being taught sex education at an early age but unfortunately in this day and age, it is a necessity if we want to keep children safe.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

When writing a thesis statement, it is essential to avoid common mistakes that may weaken your argument or confuse your reader. In this section, we will discuss two main pitfalls to avoid: Overgeneralizing and Using Weak or Vague Language.

Overgeneralizing

Overgeneralizing refers to making broad, sweeping claims in your thesis statement without providing specific, concrete evidence to support them. To avoid overgeneralization, focus on providing a clear and concise argument, grounded in solid research and evidence. Brainstorm specific examples or points you will address in your paper that support your thesis. For example, if your thesis is about a controversial topic, make sure your argument is based on valid research and takes a clear direction, rather than making generalized statements.

To prevent overgeneralization in your thesis statement:

• Narrow the focus of your argument.
• Ensure your claim is specific and backed up by evidence.
• Be consistent with the goals and direction outlined in your paper.

Using Weak or Vague Language

Using weak or vague language in your thesis statement can result in a lack of clarity and create confusion for your reader. To maintain a strong, clear, and convincing thesis, avoid using weak or unclear terms, such as “interesting” or “might.” Instead, use assertive and definitive language that demonstrates your confidence and knowledge of the subject matter. For instance, if you are writing about a potential solution to a problem, make sure to express your stance in a strong, clear way to entice your reader and promise valuable insights.

To strengthen the language of your thesis statement:

• Avoid using vague or ambiguous terms.
• Use clear, specific language that directly communicates your argument.
• Stay focused on your main points and the direction of your paper.

Keeping these tips in mind and utilizing clear language will contribute to a stronger, more effective thesis statement.

Crafting Engaging Introductions and Conclusions

Writing a hook.

A successful introduction begins with an attention-grabbing hook. A hook is an opening statement that piques the reader’s interest and encourages them to continue reading. There are various types of hooks, such as using a quote, posing a question, or stating an intriguing fact. The hook should be relevant to the topic and set the tone for the rest of the article.

Connecting Thesis Statement to Conclusion

The conclusion of an academic paper should restate the thesis statement and summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs. However, it’s important to do this in a way that doesn’t merely repeat the same information, but instead provides a sense of closure and emphasizes the significance of the topic.

One way to achieve this is by connecting the thesis statement to the conclusion through the use of topic sentences and counterarguments. A well-crafted topic sentence should introduce the main idea of a body paragraph, while a counterargument addresses potential objections to the thesis statement. Utilizing these elements effectively throughout the paper creates a sense of cohesion and allows for a smooth transition from the introduction to the conclusion.

By incorporating engaging hooks and thoughtfully connecting the thesis statement to the conclusion, the reader is more likely to be drawn into the article and appreciate the depth of the content presented.

Thesis Statement Infographic

A thesis statement is made up of one or two sentences and gives the author the chance to tell the reader what the essay is going to be about as well as their stance on the topic. It should be clear and concise and should always tie in with the body paragraphs of the essay .

Whilst there are many points to consider when writing a thesis statement, a well-written one can answer a question and engage the reader in the essay. Sticking with the ‘rules’ of the thesis statement will allow the author to craft a well-written and relevant essay.

FAQs on Thesis Statement

What is a thesis statement.

A thesis statement is a sentence or two in an essay or research paper that presents the main argument or central idea of the paper. It tells the reader what to expect, guides the structure of the paper, and directly answers the question or topic being discussed.

How do I write a thesis statement?

There are four simple steps to write a thesis statement:

• Start with a question : Identify the topic or question your paper will explore.
• Write your initial answer : This should be a concise statement that provides a preliminary answer to the question.
• Develop your answer : Expand on your initial answer by considering its implications, context, and evidence.
• Refine your thesis statement : Revise and refine your statement to make it clear, specific, and arguable.

Where should the thesis statement be placed?

The placement of the thesis statement varies depending on the type of paper or essay. However, a common place for the thesis statement is at the end of the introduction paragraph, making it easier for the reader to identify the main argument early in the text.

What makes a good thesis statement?

A good thesis statement should be:

• Clear : It should communicate your main point without confusion.
• Specific : It should focus on a single topic or argument.
• Arguable : It should present a claim that people can reasonably disagree on.
• Relevant : It should relate to the purpose of the paper and contribute to its overall message.

What are the different types of thesis statements?

There are two main types of thesis statements:

• Analytical : An analytical thesis breaks down an issue or idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents the breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
• Expository (explanatory) : An expository thesis explains something to the audience.

Remember, as you work on your thesis statement, keep the rest of your paper in mind to ensure that it aligns with the paper’s overall content and objective.

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Thesis Examples: Analytical, Expository, and Argumentative Statements

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A thesis statement is one of the most important aspects of a typical essay structure. Basically, it provides an overview of what essays will talk about. Moreover, central claims define particular structures and content of a whole paper. Consequently, even a paragraph structure depends on a main idea. However, there are problems with understanding a significant difference between examples of a thesis statement and a purpose statement and a wide diversity of main arguments for specific types of papers. Therefore, thesis statement examples presented in this article will shed light on how to create a perfect claim and even will earn you an A+ grade in every academic essay.

General Aspects

A thesis statement example takes an integral part in any form of academic writing. Basically, a good thesis sentence contains a main focus of any essay. In turn, a person can understand a whole article by reading through a central statement. Along these lines, a main claim provides a synopsis of an academic paper. In particular, there are three categories of thesis examples, namely analytical, expository, and argumentative, which evaluate, explain, and convince an audience, respectively, while other types of papers have their own features students should learn to provide high-quality documents so that readers can understand after reading them.

What Is a Thesis Statement Example and Its Purpose

From its definition, a thesis statement example is a concise summary of a main point or single claim located as a last sentence in an introduction section of any essay, research paper, or academic document. The main purpose of writing a thesis statement example is to articulate a central argument or position that writers will support with evidence and analysis throughout their essays or research papers (Langan & Albright, 2023). In general, examples of central claims not only present a main argument but also cover supporting points that will be elaborated further. As a result, when people offer a clear and specific claim, they ensure their papers remain organized and coherent, which allows readers to follow their reasoning and conclusions effectively (Babin et al., 2020). In terms of words, the length of a thesis statement example can vary depending on academic levels, topics, their complexity, and specific requirements of an assignment or research project, and general guidelines are:

• High School: Typically, an example of a high school thesis statement is concise and straightforward, usually ranging from 15 to 25 words.
• College: A college thesis statement example is more detailed and specific, usually between 20 to 40 words.
• University: At this academic level, an example of a thesis statement is more complex and in-depth, ranging from 30 to 50 words.
• Master’s: A master’s thesis statement example is highly specific and detailed, usually between 40 to 60 words.
• Ph.D.: An example of a Ph.D. thesis statement is the most detailed and comprehensive, often ranging from 50 to 70 words.

Note: Any thesis statement example is a summary of an essay that is usually one sentence at the end of an introduction. Such a sentence must serve as a roadmap for investigations and has to be written with care.

Thesis Statement vs. Purpose Statement

A standard goal of a purpose statement is to deliver a message about what essays will be written about. In contrast, a central argument talks about what is already written in papers and provides final investigations found within written pieces. For example, a purpose sentence does not provide a clear structure for papers (Miller & Pessoa, 2016). Unfortunately, such a statement fails to meet academic standards as it is clear that writers do not understand what will be written in their works when they start writing them. However, a thesis claim is a way how all authors deliver their insightful thoughts that are important for investigation. Hence, their examples are:

Purpose statement example – In this essay, I will … .

Thesis statement example – This essay investigates on … .

Even from these two simple examples, it is clear that future work will be very different.

Main Types of Central Statements

The primary focus of a thesis statement in an analytical essay is to evaluate and give meaning to a concept or situation. For example, analytical thesis examples answer “how” and “why” questions (Babin et al., 2020). Basically, such a type of sentence is prevalent in analysis papers. In turn, an excellent example of an analytical thesis statement is: “The process of metamorphosis signifies the class struggles of the organisms to break out of a life of being oppressed.” Hence, the above thesis explains “how” the animals behave during metamorphosis. Besides, this statement indicates the reasons “why” organisms struggle during the process of transformation. Thus, an analytical claim evaluates various situations to give meaning. In turn, some other examples of sentence starters for beginning an analytical thesis statement are:

• A detailed analysis of [topic] reveals that a direct connection between [factor] and [factor] significantly influences [outcome], demonstrating that … .
• Examining [subject] through the lens of [theory/approach] demonstrates that underlying themes of [theme] and [theme] contribute to a deeper understanding of … .
• The relationship between [variable] and [variable] in the context of [event/phenomenon] suggests that broader societal changes are driven by … .
• Investigating the historical background of [event/issue] ensures the key factors contributing to [outcome] are based on … .
• By breaking down the components of [topic], it becomes clear that the dynamics of [aspect] are essential in understanding the broader implications of … .
• The impact of [event/phenomenon] on [subject] highlights that changes in [aspect] have profound effects on [related aspect], suggesting that … .
• A close examination of [issue] indicates that the difference between [factor] and [factor] plays a crucial role in shaping the future of … .
• Evaluating the consequences of [action/policy] underlines that, while [positive outcome] is achieved, significant challenges, such as [negative outcome] persist, ensuring … .
• An exploration of [topic] within the framework of [theory/approach] suggests that the prevailing trends in [aspect] are indicative of deeper societal shifts toward … .
• The patterns observed in [data/behavior] reveal that underlying causes, such as [factor] and [factor], are instrumental in analyzing the observed changes in … .

An expository thesis statement explains a situation to a target reader. For instance, a thesis statement in an expository essay should assert what one wants a particular reader to know, believe, or understand (Inoshita et al., 2019). In this case, expository thesis examples must explain to a reader the meaning or implication of an essay. Besides, an explanatory claim should give a writer’s accurate opinion on a subject matter (Allen et al., 2018). Moreover, an expository thesis statement should be declarative. Along these lines, sentence examples should reveal a primary intention of a writer to share information. In turn, an excellent example of an expository thesis statement is: “In modern times, the “Azonto Music” heavily influences the social lives of Ghanaians.” This thesis example explains how “Azonto Music” affects socialization among Ghanaians today. On the other hand, a reader can understand what an essay explains by reading through this sentence example. Thus, an expository sentence elucidates a situation to a reader. In turn, some other examples of sentence starters for beginning an expository thesis statement are:

• This paper will explain how [topic] influences [outcome] by examining [specific aspects].
• The purpose of this essay is to describe the process of [process] and its impact on [subject].
• By exploring the various components of [topic], this paper aims to highlight [specific aspect].
• This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of [topic], focusing on [key points].
• In this essay, the main factors contributing to [issue] will be discussed, including [specific factors].
• This paper will examine the role of [element] in [context], emphasizing [specific aspect].
• The objective of this essay is to analyze the effects of [event/phenomenon] on [subject], highlighting [specific outcomes].
• Current research will investigate the key elements of [topic], illustrating how [aspect] affects [subject].
• This project aims to explore the significance of [topic] in [context], focusing on [main points].
• By examining [topic], this paper will shed light on the importance of [aspect] and its implications for [subject].

Argumentative

An argumentative thesis statement convinces a reader to believe in a specific point of view. For instance, an argumentative sentence states an arguable claim (Morris et al., 2018). In essence, such an element provides reasons or evidence that support a single claim in an argumentative essay. Besides, its organization helps to convince a target reader to adopt a specific position. An excellent example of an argumentative thesis statement is: “Farmers should not eliminate Barn Owl’s nests from storehouses because this bird helps to reduce insects and rodents.” A particular claim presented a debatable issue and evidence to support a writer’s perception. Thus, argumentative thesis statement examples try to influence a reader’s opinion. In turn, some other examples of sentence starters for beginning an argumentative thesis statement are:

• Although some people believe [opposing view], [your view] because [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3].
• The evidence clearly shows that [position] is the best solution for [issue] due to [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3].
• Given the current data supporting [position], it is evident that [action/policy] should be implemented to address [issue].
• While [opposing view] argues [opposing argument], [your view] is more accurate because [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3].
• In light of [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3], it is essential that [specific action/policy] should be adopted to solve [problem].
• The benefits of [your view] outweigh the drawbacks because [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3].
• Despite the arguments against [your position], the evidence indicates that [your position] is necessary for [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3].
• The current approach to [issue] is flawed; therefore, [alternative approach] should be adopted because [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3].
• Because [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3], it is clear that [your position] is the most effective way to address [issue].
• To ensure [desired outcome], it is crucial to [specific action], as supported by [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3].

Thesis Statement Examples for Other Types of Papers

For any type of paper, scholars should write academically. In turn, students must follow the set of rules regarding paper formats, essay structure, and others. Therefore, tips on academic writing would be like:

• Avoid a purpose statement and write a thesis statement;
• Be clear about what you are presenting to your reader;
• Make sure to investigate your subject before you start writing anything to prevent possible academic issues;
• Be critical and concise;
• Follow formatting rules;
• Provide mistakes-free work;
• Adhere to specifications within different educational facilities, academic levels, types of papers, and so on.

Below are a few thesis statement examples on how to adapt a main idea to a specific type of paper:

Scientific Works

Research Paper

A research paper is a unique type of document designed for serious academic investigations. As such, writers should pay attention to all results acquired during the research and make sure each important conclusion that this study provided is mentioned in a main sentence.

The research paper found that X compound will behave differently due to this and that, while external influence from this and that will not affect the outcome of the reaction, which was considered unreachable before, creating a new stable compound.

Literature Review

For a literature review or literary analysis, people make sure they summarize a synthesized argument they got during their review of different sources. Moreover, written works must not make any new contributions. In turn, a main claim example has to reflect a central idea and be centered around sources.

As a result, the literature review on recent publications on global warming proved the rise of temperature is a short-term consequence of pollution, while the long-term threat is yet to be determined.

Research Proposal

A main claim in a research proposal is more like a hypothesis. Scholars are trying to explain what they are going to accomplish. However, while a typical purpose statement might be used in some cases, a research proposal also has done the research. In turn, a main sentence has to summarize such an act.

However, considering the gap in the understanding of how global warming affects the species in Texas, it was found that some of them got extinct, creating a need for the investigation of the possible link between the two events.

Narrative Essay

A narrative essay is usually based on personal experience. Basically, a thesis claim example for a narrative essay will explain how such an experience accomplished a specific goal. Moreover, a whole work will be a story on how individuals moved from one point of life to another and how it changed them or how some other events were a definite moment in someone’s life. As such, a main sentence will connect start and end points.

Therefore, I realized that various challenges on my life path could make me only stronger in regards to the fact that we are all becoming stronger with each day we live, but such knowledge becomes inevitable after you face tons of paid in the process of perception of it.

Informative Essay

An informative essay is written to inform readers of some minor themes. Therefore, a thesis sentence example is informative and explains a defined message that writers try to deliver.

Therefore, these days, the word “to google” means to search, not to use Google to search for any information as a person who “googles” will not necessarily use Google for such purpose.

Persuasive Essays

In persuasive papers, writers try to present convincing arguments that might change someone’s perception of a specific topic. Moreover, students use evidence to follow standard academic rules, while utilizing facts is vital. As such, a main statement example will be unique in such type of work and will display convincing argumentation.

Therefore, Trump is wrong in his judgment of global warming being a myth as scientific journals, such as 1, 2, and 3, present more than a hundred of recent articles only within the last year of publication, providing evidence of his opinion being incorrect.

Applications

Cover Letter, Admission, Personal Statement, and Related Types of Papers

In papers used to participate in specific job applications or colleges, candidates should make it clear why they are the best fit for available opportunities.

Therefore, my passion for something, required knowledge in point 1 and point 2 , vast experience in idea 1 and idea 2, and the willingness to accomplish this and that makes me a perfect fit for the available opportunity.

Personal Reflection and Response

These types of papers are used to express opinions on specific works so that thesis statement examples for them would orient on one’s final judgment.

Therefore, the “Black Panther” movie is one of the best movies existing as it opened up a new era of empowering blacks within the media.

Book or Movie Review

This type of paper focuses on an analysis of facts and interpretations of them to assess an author’s purpose. Moreover, a typical review might include personal opinion, but it has to be based on analysis, making a thesis claim example more analytical.

As a result, by considering the analysis of the use of light, characters, themes, symbolism, settings, and plot of the movie “Black Panther,” it is clear that the movie highlighted Black people most appealingly, using strong images and magnificent cultural background to appeal to their viewers in a way to present Blacks strong, smart, independent, and crucial for their enemies.

Article, Artwork, Event, and Video Review

These types of works usually focus on observations, and a thesis claim example has to be a reflection of a personal assessment. Usually, it also talks about a key takeaway.

After viewing a scientific video, it became clear that these factors impact people’s perception of anything before interacting with it because they are coming into contact with it with a biased viewpoint.

Basic Writing

Thesis statement examples for summary usually orient on an expression of an author’s main idea. As a result, some people also call it as an author’s thesis. Therefore, writers have to reflect on an author’s main idea delivered by their work.

As a result, this and this impacted that and that in the 19th century, according to the author, who is highlighting point 1, point 2 , and point 3 in her book.

Rhetorical Analysis

Ethos, pathos, and logos are those rhetorical devices that students will write about. Therefore, a working idea has to reflect on those elements.

Using ethos, pathos, and logos, the author succeeded in delivering the message to the target audience as point 1 proves the author’s credibility, point 2 appeals to emotions, and point 3 is where the author uses logical reasoning.

There are usually no thesis statement examples in memo letters. Besides, people mostly use such papers for communication with non-scholars. However, when it comes to memo examples, a main sentence example will be the most important information an author tries to deliver.

In the next semester, all teachers are obligated to take one extra course due to the shortage of personnel, but will also have higher salaries available to cover up the inconveniences caused.

Common Mistakes

• Too Broad: Your claim is overly general and lacks a specific focus.
• Too Narrow: Your argument is excessively specific, limiting a paper’s scope.
• Fact, Not an Argument: Your sentence merely states a fact instead of presenting a debatable point.
• Too Vague: Your statement is unclear and lacks detailed information.
• Multiple Ideas: Your proposition includes several unrelated points.
• Lacks a Stance: Your point does not clearly state your position.
• Too Long: Your idea is overly complex and difficult to follow.
• Lacks Originality: Your assertion is clichéd or restates common knowledge without offering a unique perspective.
• Misplaced: Your stance is not located at the end of an introduction where it is most effective.
• Unsupported: You make an argument not backed up by a paper’s content.

In conclusion, thesis examples represent an integral part of academic writing and give readers an overview of an entire content, and they are not the same as purpose sentences. The three main categories of thesis examples include analytical, expository, and argumentative formats. Firstly, an analytical assertion covers a situation. Secondly, an expository statement explains a position to a reader. Thirdly, an argumentative claim allows an audience to accept an alternative point of view. In turn, other types of papers can follow the same three categories of a central claim, but they should be modified depending on the best option to follow.

Allen, L. K., Likens, A. D., & McNamara, D. S. (2018). Writing flexibility in argumentative essays: A multidimensional analysis. Reading and Writing , 32 (6), 1607–1634. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11145-018-9921-y

Babin, M., Burnell, C., Pesznecker, S. M., Rosevear, N., & Wood, J. R. (2020). The word on college reading and writing . Open Oregon Educational Resources.

Inoshita, A., Garland, K., Sims, K., Tsutsui Keuma, J. K., & Williams, T. (2019). English composition: Connect, collaborate, communicate . University of Hawaii Manoa.

Langan, J., & Albright, Z. L. (2023). College writing skills with readings . McGraw-Hill LLC.

Miller, R. T., & Pessoa, S. (2016). Where’s your thesis statement and what happened to your topic sentences? Identifying organizational challenges in undergraduate student argumentative writing. TESOL Journal , 7 (4), 847–873. https://doi.org/10.1002/tesj.248

Morris, J. A., Miller, B. W., Anderson, R. C., Nguyen-Jahiel, K. T., Lin, T.-J., Scott, T., Zhang, J., Sun, J., & Ma, S. (2018). Instructional discourse and argumentative writing. International Journal of Educational Research , 90 , 234–247. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijer.2018.03.001

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7 Expository Essay Thesis Statement Examples That’ll Help to Create One of Your Own

An expository statement is aimed at explaining something to the audience. You don’t have to prove or analyze the subject matter – only deliver the information. Here are some expository essay thesis statement examples for you to peruse.

• Statistic shows that students constantly exposed to a foreign language in everyday situations (e.g., living in a foreign country) show much higher proficiency and fluency levels (even without additional language courses) than students who only study the foreign language in question in the classroom.
• Professional photography requires considerable experience, diverse equipment and isn’t limited to taking photos of objects, but also involves lengthy processing of shot material.
• Japanese language uses three independent writing systems: Hiragana, Katakana and Kanji. Hiragana is a syllabary (syllabic alphabet), normally used for Japanese words. Katakana is a syllabary representing identical sounds with a different set of symbols, usually used for foreign and loan words. Kanji are adopted Chinese logographic characters.
• Dramatic decrease in fat intake doesn’t necessarily lead to better health, because fats play their important role in organism’s functioning.
• Pet neutering tends to lead to longer lifespans and increases the quality of their life. It is highly recommended in case the animal isn’t intended for breeding purposes.
• Spaced repetition is a memorization and learning technique based on reviewing previously learned material after increasingly long periods of time, thus optimizing the use of the so-called spacing effect, according to which learning is more effective when it is spread over prolonged periods.
• World globalization is a tendency for gradual elimination of both natural and artificial obstacles to worldwide economic exchange. It involved the increased ease of transportation and cross-border movement as well as higher availability of services, labor and financial resources across borders.
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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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9 Different Types of Thesis Statements: With Examples for Each

Types of Thesis Statements

A strong thesis statement is a fundamental part of a well-structured argumentative essay or academic paper. It holds various important purposes. 

Some of the purposes of a thesis statement include making the paper’s focus clear, guiding the writer, organizing the essay’s structure, enhancing clarity and understanding, and engaging the readers. 

It also helps the writer engage in critical thinking, enhances the strength of the essay’s argument, and improves consistency. A thesis statement is usually part of the evaluative criterion. 

The thing that differentiates a thesis statement from another is its particular characteristics and purpose. Different papers or essays require different types of thesis statements. 

This article will discuss the different types of thesis statements in terms of their definition and explanation, provide examples for those statements, and demonstrate when to use them. 

Different Types of Thesis Statements

1. the expository thesis statement.

This is a type of thesis statement used in research papers or expository essays. It is a clear and concise statement of the central argument or point of the essay.

The expository thesis statement is meant to explain, inform, or describe the topic that is being discussed.

It is neutral because its aim is not to persuade readers to adopt a particular perspective. It straightforwardly presents objective information and facts. 

One example of an expository thesis statement includes:  “The principles of Newton’s laws of motion lay the foundation for understanding the fundamental behavior of objects in the physical world.”

Another example is:  “The process of photosynthesis, in which plants convert sunlight into energy, is a crucial part of the ecosystem’s energy cycle.”

Expository thesis statements can be used in situations where the aim is to explain a concept, provide information, describe a process, or present objective facts without trying to persuade the audience. 

As such, expository thesis statements can be used in informative essays, expository research papers, how-to guides, and descriptive essays. 

2. The Argumentative Thesis Statement

This is a thesis statement used in persuasive or argumentative essays . It presents assertive, clear, and debatable claims that the author or writer wishes to support using logical reasoning and evidence within the essay. 

The argumentative thesis statement takes a stance on a particular viewpoint to persuade the reader to concur with that point of view. 

An example of the argumentative thesis statement includes:  “The government should implement stricter gun control laws to reduce the incidence of gun violence in the United States.”

Another good example is:  “Social media has a detrimental impact on mental health, as it promotes unrealistic standards and encourages constant comparison with others.”

As aforementioned, argumentative thesis statements are meant to convince, persuade, or argue for a specific viewpoint or position on a debatable or controversial issue.

Therefore, argumentative thesis statements can be used in persuasive essays, discussions and debates, controversial topics, and opinion editorials. 

3. The Analytical Thesis Statement

These are thesis statements used in research papers or analytical essays. They focus on breaking down and examining complex issues or topics into their basic parts and evaluating how they relate to each other. 

The main purpose of an analytical thesis statement is to give insight, understanding, and interpretation instead of informing or persuading the audience. 

One example of an analytical thesis statement is:  “The economic crisis of 2008 can be attributed to a combination of factors, including risky financial practices, regulatory failures, and the burst of the housing bubble.”

The second example is:  “In Shakespeare’s play ‘Hamlet,’ the character of Hamlet undergoes a profound transformation from a hesitant and indecisive prince to a vengeful and resolute avenger.”

The analytical thesis statement is used when the objective is to interpret, evaluate, or dissect a text, subject, or idea in a critical and detailed manner. 

Such statements can be used in literary analysis essays, critical essays, research papers, comparative essays, and interdisciplinary studies. 

4. The Comparative Thesis Statement

This is a thesis statement used in research papers or essays that are meant to compare and contrast two or more ideas, subjects, texts, or phenomena. 

A comparative thesis statement highlights the similarities and differences among the things or subjects that are being compared.

They give a debatable, focused, and clear claim meant to be the foundation for comparative analysis. 

The first example of such a comparative thesis statement is:  “A comparison of Eastern and Western philosophies reveals fundamental differences in their views on the self, the nature of reality, and the path to enlightenment.”

The second example is : “When assessing the impact of two different economic policies, a comparison of austerity measures and stimulus spending reveals varying effects on economic growth and unemployment rates.”

Such statements are used in comparative essays, literacy and textual analysis, cultural and historical studies, argumentative essays, and academic research. 

5. The Narrative Thesis Statement

The narrative thesis statement is used in storytelling contexts or narrative essays. It provides the main theme, point, or message the writer or narrator wants to convey.

It is focused on the purpose of the narrative in that it encapsulates the main lesson, idea, or experience the writer or narrator wishes to convey. 

An example of the narrative thesis statement is:  “The story of my grandmother’s life in war-torn Vietnam reflects the strength and determination that can emerge from adversity.”

Another example includes: “In the narrative of my childhood summers spent at the family cabin, I discovered the importance of cherishing simple moments with loved ones.”

Such thesis statements can be used in narrative essays, memoirs, personal reflections, oral storytelling, and creative writing. 

6. The Persuasive Thesis Statement

This is a thesis statement used in speeches, argumentative essays, and persuasive essays. Its main purpose is to give a clear and debatable claim which the writer intends to support, argue, and persuade the audience to accept. 

Persuasive thesis statements take a clear position concerning a controversial topic or issue and aim to convince the readers of the validity of that stance. 

An example of such a thesis statement is:  “The death penalty should be abolished because it is inherently inhumane, prone to error, and does not act as a deterrent to crime.”

Another example is:  “Public schools should implement comprehensive sex education programs to reduce teen pregnancy rates and promote responsible sexual behavior.”

Persuasive thesis statements can be used in argumentative essays, persuasive essays, speeches and debates, op-eds and editorials, and policy proposals. 

7. The Descriptive Thesis Statement

The descriptive thesis statement aims to paint a clear or vivid picture of an object, subject, experience, or place. 

It focuses on clearly describing the topic or conveying a specific feeling or impression about the topic. It helps the reader know what to expect when it comes to imagery, emotions, or sensory details in the essay. 

An example of a descriptive thesis statement is: “ The bustling, vibrant market in Marrakech, with its vibrant colors, exotic spices, and the hum of haggling, immerses visitors in the rich tapestry of Moroccan culture.”

Another example includes:  “The abandoned, dilapidated house at the end of the street, with broken windows and overgrown ivy, exudes an eerie and haunted aura.”

Such statements can be used in travel writing, descriptive essays, creative writing, art and film analysis, and immersive storytelling. 

8. The Problem-Solution Thesis Statement

This is a thesis statement primarily used in reports, essays, or papers meant to address a particular problem or issue and propose the course of action or solution to resolve the issue. 

The problem-solution thesis statement’s purpose is to recognize a significant issue and present an actionable and clear plan or solution to address it. 

An example of such a thesis statement is:  “The rising levels of air pollution in major cities can be mitigated by implementing stricter emission standards for vehicles and promoting the use of public transportation.”

Another example includes:  “To combat the obesity epidemic among children, schools should incorporate healthier meal options, increase physical education requirements, and promote nutritional education.”

The thesis statement can be used in policy proposals, business reports, problem-solving essays, community action plans, and scientific research. 

9. The Cause and Effect Thesis Statement

Finally, the cause-and-effect thesis statement is meant to explore and explain the connections between phenomena, actions, or events by recognizing the causes and their effects. 

Such thesis statements establish particular causal relationships by explaining how one action or event leads to another, and the reasons their connections are important. 

One example of a cause-and-effect thesis statement is:  “The excessive use of social media among teenagers can lead to increased feelings of loneliness and anxiety, as it hinders face-to-face social interactions and promotes social comparison.”

Another example includes:  “The decline of bee populations, caused by pesticide use and habitat destruction, has a cascading effect on food production and biodiversity, endangering global ecosystems.”

The thesis statement can be used in scientific research, cause and effect essays, historical analysis, environmental studies, and social and economic studies. 

A strong thesis statement is a very important part of a well-structured argumentative essay or academic paper.

What differentiates a thesis statement from another is its particular characteristics and purpose. Different papers or essays require different types of thesis statements.

Therefore, it is essential to first identify the type of paper or essay before deciding on the thesis statement to use. 

Josh Jasen or JJ as we fondly call him, is a senior academic editor at Grade Bees in charge of the writing department. When not managing complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In his spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

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