Crafting Effective Thesis Statements

What is a thesis statement?

• A conclusion of the paper

• A list of all the points covered in the paper

• A sentence or few sentences explaining the main argument

• A summary of the entire paper

Where is a thesis statement typically found in a piece of writing?

• In the title

• Near the beginning, usually at the end of the introduction

• In the middle of the body

• At the end of the conclusion

Which of the following is NOT a key feature of a thesis statement?

• Early

• Specific

• Adaptable

• Lengthy

Why should a thesis statement be adaptable?

• To adjust as ideas develop during writing and revision

• To change the main argument frequently

• To make the paper longer

• To confuse the reader

What should dictate the way your thesis statement looks?

• The font size

• The number of sources you have

• The situation you are writing in

• The length of your paper

If you are writing a how-to guide, what should your thesis statement signal?

• The bibliography

• The conclusion

• The genre and purpose of the piece

• The main argument

What was the initial thesis statement in the example provided?

• High school graduates should take a year off for community service projects.

• High school graduates should take a year off before going to college.

• High school graduates should be mature and globally aware.

• High school graduates should focus on their studies.

What two possible results of gap years were added to the thesis statement in the example?

• Increased income and job opportunities

• More friends and better health

• Maturity and global awareness

• Higher grades and better social skills

What should you check off for your readers when writing a thesis statement?

• Use complex vocabulary

• Include as many points as possible

• Set up expectations and fulfill them in the paper

• Write a lengthy introduction

What are the three key features to ensure in your thesis statement?

• Short, vague, and rigid

• Broad, late, and fixed

• Long, detailed, and complex

• Specific, early, and adaptable