Thesis Statements The Foundation of All Good Writing

Thesis Statement  The thesis statement sums up the entire essay in one complete sentence.  If it is not a complete sentence, it’s not a thesis statement.  Formula for a thesis statement:  Topic + main point about topic

Thesis Statement TOPIC Your position on topic +

Thesis Statement?  My work history. Position on topic missing Not correct!

Thesis Statement? My work history has been one of continual growth and learning. Correct!! Main point about topic topic

Thesis Statement?  How can I describe my work history? Question: Position on topic missing Not correct!

Thesis Statement? My work history has been a journey filled with unexpected detours, all leading me to where I am meant to be. Correct!! Main point about topic topic

Announcement: Position on topic missing Thesis Statement?  This essay will be about my work history. Not correct!

Thesis Statement? My work history shows that I am doing what I was meant to do: helping others as others have helped me. Correct!! topic Main point about topic

Thesis Statement  Thesis Statement Formula  Topic + Position on topic = Thesis Statement  A topic alone is not enough!  Announcing your topic in sentence form is not enough!  Stating your topic in question form is not enough!

Thesis Statement A strong thesis statement Is specific, not generic: fits only your essay Helps the writer by providing a clear focal point around which to organize the rest of the essay Helps the reader by showing the main point that your essay will explain or prove

Thesis Statement Should be clear in the opening paragraph(s) Should be reinforced in the closing paragraph(s)