Thesis Statement

1. Thesis Statement

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

3. Thesis Statement TOPIC Your position on topic +

4. Thesis Statement? Based on my writing history, the need for this course. Not a complete sentence

5. Thesis Statement? This essay will be about my writing history. Position on topicmissing

6. Topic Position ontopic Thesis Statement? • Reviewing my writing historyhas made me realize how much I need this course.

7. 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.

8. Thesis Statement • states a main point that you can show, explain, or prove • prepares the reader for the essay • is specific, not vague • doesn’t just make an announcement

9. Thesis Statements • Weak thesis statement: • Everyone should eat more vegetables. • This thesis is too vague — do french fries count? It’s also too broad — what is true of everyone? • Revised thesis statement: • Most Americans would get health benefits from adding more green vegetables to their diets.

10. Thesis Statements • Weak thesis statement: • Dogs make wonderful pets. • This thesis is too vague—what makes a pet “wonderful”? • It is too broad—does it apply to every dog? • Finally, how can the writer explain or prove this thesis? • Revised thesis statement: • Raising a puppy to become a guide dog for a blind person required hard work and sacrifices—including the most difficult thing I’ve ever done, giving up a beloved friend.

11. Summary • An effective thesis statement always: • Expresses a complete thought • Introduces a topic • Presents a position on topic • Avoids simply making an announcement • Presents an idea that is neither too narrow or too broad