Thesis+Statements

A thesis statement is the argument that you will prove through the ideas, assertions, and supporting evidence you write in your body paragraphs. It allows your reader to know what to expect from your writing in terms of content and attitude.
 * THESIS STATEMENTS:**


 * A solid thesis should:**
 * Be a complete sentence that contains your topic and your opinion on that topic**. ie. //Romeo, initially a seemingly lovestruck teenager, later reveals his character to be that of a confused boy swayed by outward appearances and impulsiveness.//


 * Be provable or arguable**. If no one disagrees with your thesis, then you are stating a fact that cannot be argued. Not worthwhile.


 * Have an implied purpose.** The thesis should imply the purpose of your writing the essay. You are trying to persuade and convince rather than simply inform.


 * Have one major idea.** Be focussed.


 * Use specific language to support the point being made.** No vague words like “good, nice, and stuff”


 * Suggest an implied outline:** ie. If the thesis mentions two supporting ideas, then the reader can assume that the essay will discuss each if these ideas in a given section.


 * Be easily recognizable**. Most people decide to have the thesis at the end of the introductory paragraph so that the reader is eased into the essay’s topic. This is not necessarily the only place to put your thesis, but it is the most common.

__A thesis statement is not__: · A fact · A belief (that cannot be factually grounded) · A quotation or paraphrase · A question (the answer to the question might be the thesis, but not the question.)Too broad or general · Directly addressing the reader. Don’t tell the reader what you are going to do “I will argue that…” or “In this essay I will…”

__Writing a good thesis statement:__ //Revise these weak thesis statements://

1. There are a lot of insects in the world.

2. Computer problems are annoying.

3. Love is an emotion.