How to Develop a Strong Thesis Statement
1. Understand the Purpose of a Thesis Statement
- The thesis statement defines the central argument of your paper.
- It answers your research question and sets the position of your paper.
2. Make It Concise, Contentious, and Coherent
- The thesis should be brief and to the point, summarizing your argument in one or two sentences.
- It should make a claim that requires evidence or further analysis to support.
- Ensure the thesis statement is coherent, guiding the structure of your paper.
3. Revise and Refine as You Research
- Your thesis statement may evolve as you gather more information.
- Keep it flexible, but ensure it remains aligned with the paper's argument.
4. Support Your Thesis in Every Paragraph
- Each section or paragraph of your paper should relate back to and support the thesis statement.
- Ensure the thesis remains the guiding element throughout your paper.