sentence example with the word thesis

How to Use thesis in a Sentence

• We disagreed with the basic thesis of the report.
• The book's central thesis is that propaganda influences the masses in important ways.
• New evidence supports his thesis .
• She wrote her thesis on Renaissance Nativity scenes.

Some of these examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'thesis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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25 Thesis Statement Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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A thesis statement is needed in an essay or dissertation . There are multiple types of thesis statements – but generally we can divide them into expository and argumentative. An expository statement is a statement of fact (common in expository essays and process essays) while an argumentative statement is a statement of opinion (common in argumentative essays and dissertations). Below are examples of each.

Strong Thesis Statement Examples

1. School Uniforms

“Mandatory school uniforms should be implemented in educational institutions as they promote a sense of equality, reduce distractions, and foster a focused and professional learning environment.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay or Debate

Read More: School Uniforms Pros and Cons

2. Nature vs Nurture

“This essay will explore how both genetic inheritance and environmental factors equally contribute to shaping human behavior and personality.”

Best For: Compare and Contrast Essay

Read More: Nature vs Nurture Debate

3. American Dream

“The American Dream, a symbol of opportunity and success, is increasingly elusive in today’s socio-economic landscape, revealing deeper inequalities in society.”

Best For: Persuasive Essay

Read More: What is the American Dream?

4. Social Media

“Social media has revolutionized communication and societal interactions, but it also presents significant challenges related to privacy, mental health, and misinformation.”

Best For: Expository Essay

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Social Media

5. Globalization

“Globalization has created a world more interconnected than ever before, yet it also amplifies economic disparities and cultural homogenization.”

Read More: Globalization Pros and Cons

6. Urbanization

“Urbanization drives economic growth and social development, but it also poses unique challenges in sustainability and quality of life.”

Read More: Learn about Urbanization

7. Immigration

“Immigration enriches receiving countries culturally and economically, outweighing any perceived social or economic burdens.”

Read More: Immigration Pros and Cons

8. Cultural Identity

“In a globalized world, maintaining distinct cultural identities is crucial for preserving cultural diversity and fostering global understanding, despite the challenges of assimilation and homogenization.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay

Read More: Learn about Cultural Identity

9. Technology

“Medical technologies in care institutions in Toronto has increased subjcetive outcomes for patients with chronic pain.”

Best For: Research Paper

10. Capitalism vs Socialism

“The debate between capitalism and socialism centers on balancing economic freedom and inequality, each presenting distinct approaches to resource distribution and social welfare.”

11. Cultural Heritage

“The preservation of cultural heritage is essential, not only for cultural identity but also for educating future generations, outweighing the arguments for modernization and commercialization.”

12. Pseudoscience

“Pseudoscience, characterized by a lack of empirical support, continues to influence public perception and decision-making, often at the expense of scientific credibility.”

Read More: Examples of Pseudoscience

13. Free Will

“The concept of free will is largely an illusion, with human behavior and decisions predominantly determined by biological and environmental factors.”

Read More: Do we have Free Will?

14. Gender Roles

“Traditional gender roles are outdated and harmful, restricting individual freedoms and perpetuating gender inequalities in modern society.”

Read More: What are Traditional Gender Roles?

15. Work-Life Ballance

“The trend to online and distance work in the 2020s led to improved subjective feelings of work-life balance but simultaneously increased self-reported loneliness.”

Read More: Work-Life Balance Examples

16. Universal Healthcare

“Universal healthcare is a fundamental human right and the most effective system for ensuring health equity and societal well-being, outweighing concerns about government involvement and costs.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Universal Healthcare

17. Minimum Wage

“The implementation of a fair minimum wage is vital for reducing economic inequality, yet it is often contentious due to its potential impact on businesses and employment rates.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Raising the Minimum Wage

18. Homework

“The homework provided throughout this semester has enabled me to achieve greater self-reflection, identify gaps in my knowledge, and reinforce those gaps through spaced repetition.”

Best For: Reflective Essay

Read More: Reasons Homework Should be Banned

19. Charter Schools

“Charter schools offer alternatives to traditional public education, promising innovation and choice but also raising questions about accountability and educational equity.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Charter Schools

20. Effects of the Internet

“The Internet has drastically reshaped human communication, access to information, and societal dynamics, generally with a net positive effect on society.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of the Internet

21. Affirmative Action

“Affirmative action is essential for rectifying historical injustices and achieving true meritocracy in education and employment, contrary to claims of reverse discrimination.”

Best For: Essay

Read More: Affirmative Action Pros and Cons

22. Soft Skills

“Soft skills, such as communication and empathy, are increasingly recognized as essential for success in the modern workforce, and therefore should be a strong focus at school and university level.”

Read More: Soft Skills Examples

23. Moral Panic

“Moral panic, often fueled by media and cultural anxieties, can lead to exaggerated societal responses that sometimes overlook rational analysis and evidence.”

Read More: Moral Panic Examples

24. Freedom of the Press

“Freedom of the press is critical for democracy and informed citizenship, yet it faces challenges from censorship, media bias, and the proliferation of misinformation.”

Read More: Freedom of the Press Examples

25. Mass Media

“Mass media shapes public opinion and cultural norms, but its concentration of ownership and commercial interests raise concerns about bias and the quality of information.”

Best For: Critical Analysis

Read More: Mass Media Examples

Checklist: How to use your Thesis Statement

✅ Position: If your statement is for an argumentative or persuasive essay, or a dissertation, ensure it takes a clear stance on the topic. ✅ Specificity: It addresses a specific aspect of the topic, providing focus for the essay. ✅ Conciseness: Typically, a thesis statement is one to two sentences long. It should be concise, clear, and easily identifiable. ✅ Direction: The thesis statement guides the direction of the essay, providing a roadmap for the argument, narrative, or explanation. ✅ Evidence-based: While the thesis statement itself doesn’t include evidence, it sets up an argument that can be supported with evidence in the body of the essay. ✅ Placement: Generally, the thesis statement is placed at the end of the introduction of an essay.

Try These AI Prompts – Thesis Statement Generator!

One way to brainstorm thesis statements is to get AI to brainstorm some for you! Try this AI prompt:

💡 AI PROMPT FOR EXPOSITORY THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTUCTIONS]. I want you to create an expository thesis statement that doesn’t argue a position, but demonstrates depth of knowledge about the topic.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR ARGUMENTATIVE THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTRUCTIONS]. I want you to create an argumentative thesis statement that clearly takes a position on this issue.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR COMPARE AND CONTRAST THESIS STATEMENT I am writing a compare and contrast essay that compares [Concept 1] and [Concept2]. Give me 5 potential single-sentence thesis statements that remain objective.

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How To Write A Strong Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is the most important part of an essay. It’s the roadmap, telling the reader what they can expect to read in the rest of paper, setting the tone for the writing, and generally providing a sense of the main idea.

Because it is so important, writing a good thesis statement can be tricky.

Before we get into the specifics, let’s review the basics: what thesis statement means. Thesis is a fancy word for “the subject of an essay” or “a position in a debate.” And a statement , simply, is a sentence (or a couple of sentences).

Taken together, a thesis statement explains your subject or position in a sentence (or a couple of sentences). Depending on the kind of essay you’re writing, you’ll need to make sure that your thesis statement states your subject or position clearly.

While the phrase thesis statement can sound intimidating, the basic goal is to clearly state your topic or your argument . Easy peasy!

The basic rules for writing a thesis statement are:

• State the topic or present your argument.
• Summarize the main idea of each of your details and/or body paragraphs.
• Keep your statement to one to two sentences.

Now comes the good stuff: the breakdown of how to write a good thesis statement for an informational essay and then for an argumentative essay (Yes, there are different types of thesis statements: check them all out here ). While the approach is similar for each, they require slightly different statements.

Informational essay thesis statements

The objective of an informational essay is to inform your audience about a specific topic. Sometimes, your essay will be in response to a specific question. Other times, you will be given a subject to write about more generally.

In an informational essay , you are not arguing for one side of an argument, you are just providing information.

Essays that are responding to a question

Often, you will be provided with a question to respond to in informational essay form. For example:

• Who is your hero and why?
• How do scientists research the effects of zero gravity on plants?
• What are the three branches of government, and what do each of them do?

If you are given a question or prompt, use it as a starting point for your thesis statement. Remember, the goal of a thesis statement in an informational essay is to state your topic.

You can use some of the same vocabulary and structure from the questions to create a thesis statement. Drop the question words (like who , what , when , where , and why ). Then, use the keywords in the question or prompt to start your thesis statement. Be sure to include because if the question asks “why?”

Check out the following example using the first prompt:

Original question : Who is your hero and why? Drop the question words : Who is your hero and why? Answer the question using the key words : My hero is Amelia Earhart, because she was very brave, did things many women of her time did not do, and was a hard worker.

If we were to write the rest of the essay based on this thesis statement, the outline would look something like this:

Introduction : My hero is Amelia Earhart, because she was very brave, did things many women of her time did not do, and was a hard worker. Body paragraph 1 : Details about how Amelia Earhart was brave Body paragraph 2 : Details about how she did things many women of her time did not do Body paragraph 3 : Details about how she was a hard worker Conclusion:  It is clear that Amelia Earhart was a brave woman who accomplished many things that women of her time did not do, and always worked hard. These are the reasons why she is my hero.

These general guidelines work for other thesis statements, with some minor differences.

Essays that are responding to a statement or given subject

If you aren’t given a specific question to respond to, it can be a little more difficult to decide on a thesis statement. However, there are some tricks you can use to make it easier.

Some examples of prompts that are not questions are:

• Write about your favorite sports team.
• Describe how a motor works.
• Pick a famous scientist and write about their life.
• Compare and contrast the themes of a poem and a short story.

For these, we recommend using one of the following sentence starters to write your thesis with:

• In this essay, I will …
• [Subject] is interesting/relevant/my favorite because …
• Through my research, I learned that …

As an example of how to use these sentence starters, we’ve put together some examples using the first prompt: Write about your favorite sports team.

• In this essay, I will describe the history and cultural importance of the Pittsburgh Steelers, my favorite sports team.
• The Pittsburgh Steelers are my favorite because they have had a lasting impact on the history and culture of the city.
• Through my research, I learned that the Pittsburgh Steelers have had a lot of influence on the history and culture of Pittsburgh.

Any one of these thesis statements (or all three!) could be used for an informational essay about the Pittsburgh Steelers football team and their impact on the history and culture of Pittsburgh.

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Argumentative essay thesis statements

The basic building blocks of an informational essay also apply when it comes to an argumentative essay . However, an argumentative essay requires that you take a position on an issue or prompt.

You then have to attempt to persuade your reader that your argument is the best. That means that your argumentative thesis statement needs to do two things:

• State your position on the issue.
• Summarize the evidence you will be using to defend your position.

Some examples of argumentative essay prompts are:

• Should high school students be required to do volunteer work? Why or why not?
• What is the best way to cook a turkey?
• Some argue that video games are bad for society. Do you agree? Why or why not?

In order to create a good thesis statement for an argumentative essay, you have to be as specific as possible about your position and your evidence. Let’s take a look at the first prompt as an example:

Prompt 1: Should high school students be required to do volunteer work? Why or why not? Bad thesis statement: No, I don’t think high school students should be required to do volunteer work because it’s boring. Good thesis statement: I think high school students should not be required to do volunteer work because it takes time away from their studies, provides more barriers to graduation, and does not encourage meaningful volunteer work.

Let’s look at a couple other examples:

Prompt 2: What is the best way to cook a turkey? Bad thesis statement:  The best way to cook a turkey is the way my grandma does it. Good thesis statement:  The best way to cook a turkey is using my grandmother’s recipe: brining the turkey beforehand, using a dry rub, and cooking at a low temperature.

Prompt 3: Some argue that video games are bad for society. Do you agree? Why or why not? Bad thesis   statement:  Video games aren’t bad for society, because they’re super fun. Good thesis statement:  Video games aren’t bad for society because they encourage cooperation, teach problem-solving skills, and provide hours of cheap entertainment.

Do you notice the difference between the good thesis statements and the bad thesis statements? The bad statements are general, not specific. They also use very casual language. The good statements clearly lay out exactly what aspects of the argument your essay will focus on, in a professional manner.

By the way, this same principle can also be applied to informational essay thesis statements. Take a look at this example for an idea:

Prompt:  What are the three branches of government, and what do each of them do? Bad thesis statement:  There are many branches of government that do many different things. Good thesis statement:  Each of the three branches of government—the executive, the legislative, and the judicial—have different primary responsibilities. However, these roles frequently overlap.

In addition to being more specific than the bad thesis statement, the good thesis statement here is an example of how sometimes your thesis statement may require two sentences.

Final thoughts

A thesis statement is the foundation of your essay. However, sometimes as you’re writing, you find that you’ve deviated from your original statement. Once you’ve finished writing your essay, go back and read your thesis statement. Ask yourself:

• Does my thesis statement state the topic and/or my position?
• Does my thesis statement refer to the evidence or details I refer to in my essay?
• Is my thesis statement clear and easy to understand?

Don’t hesitate to edit your thesis statement if it doesn’t meet all three of these criteria. If it does, great! You’ve crafted a solid thesis statement that effectively guides the reader through your work. Now on to the rest of the essay!

Ways To Say

Synonym of the day

Thesis Sentence

Ai generator.

Embarking on academic writing or preparing a pivotal argument for your essay? The heart of your piece lies in its thesis sentence . A succinct, powerful statement, the thesis guides readers, setting the tone for what’s to come. Discover prime examples, expert writing strategies, and invaluable tips to make your thesis stand out in a sea of academic prose.

What is the Thesis Sentence? – Definition

In simple terms, a thesis sentence is a one or two-sentence statement in an essay or research paper that precisely expresses the main idea or argument. It provides readers with an overview of the topic and the author’s stance on it, effectively laying the groundwork for the entire piece.

What is the best Example of a Thesis Sentence?

A standout thesis sentence offers clarity and a definitive perspective. For instance, if writing about the impact of social media on youth, a strong thesis might be: “Social media has a profound, often detrimental, effect on the mental well-being of today’s youth, as evidenced by rising rates of anxiety and decreased attention spans.” This statement not only presents a clear position but also hints at the evidence that the writer might use to support this claim.

100 Thesis Sentence Examples

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Crafting the ideal thesis sentence can elevate your essay or paper, presenting your argument in a clear and compelling manner. To provide you with inspiration and guidance, we’ve curated a collection of 100 exemplary thesis sentences. These samples, spanning various topics and disciplines, demonstrate the potential of a well-constructed thesis to anchor your work and captivate your audience.

• Electric vehicles have the potential to drastically reduce carbon emissions, leading us toward a sustainable future.
• Online education offers unparalleled flexibility but lacks the personal touch of traditional classroom settings.
• Globalization brings economic growth; however, it also exacerbates income inequalities within countries.
• Artificial intelligence poses both opportunities for efficiency and ethical dilemmas in decision-making processes.
• Childhood obesity is a growing concern, directly linked to sedentary lifestyles and processed food consumption.
• Mental health awareness needs greater emphasis in schools to combat rising cases of student depression.
• Space exploration provides not just scientific advancement but also unifies humanity in exploration.
• Modern architecture reflects a blend of functionality and aesthetics, representing societal values.
• Organic farming promises a sustainable solution to the environmental crises caused by conventional agricultural practices.
• Music therapy can play a pivotal role in the rehabilitation of patients with neurological disorders.
• Virtual reality transforms not only gaming but also medical training and therapy.
• Renewable energy sources are the key to addressing the looming global energy crisis.
• Animal testing is an ethically contentious issue, with alternatives emerging in recent scientific advancements.
• Social media platforms influence public opinion more powerfully than traditional media.
• Remote work culture has its merits in work-life balance but can erode team cohesion.
• Digital currencies represent the future of trade, though they introduce new regulatory challenges.
• Youth sports contribute not only to physical health but also to discipline and teamwork skills.
• Urban green spaces are essential for mental health, biodiversity, and counteracting pollution in cities.
• E-commerce has revolutionized shopping, yet it poses challenges to brick-and-mortar stores and local economies.
• Cultural exchange programs promote global unity and understanding, dismantling stereotypes.
• Preservation of indigenous languages is crucial for maintaining cultural heritage and diversity.
• The gig economy provides flexibility for workers but often lacks job security and benefits.
• Online privacy is endangered by the rise of data breaches and surveillance capitalism.
• Children’s exposure to screens impacts cognitive development and necessitates stricter parental controls.
• Nuclear energy remains a double-edged sword: a potent energy source but with disposal concerns.
• Modern tourism threatens historical sites but boosts local economies.
• Adopting pets from shelters can help reduce the stray animal crisis and promotes humane treatment.
• Mindfulness meditation reduces stress levels and has potential applications in clinical therapy.
• Fast fashion contributes to environmental degradation, advocating for sustainable consumption.
• Artificial sweeteners , while calorie-free, may have unforeseen health impacts.
• Urban farming holds the promise of food sustainability in densely populated cities.
• Mandatory voting laws could increase political participation but question voluntary democratic engagement.
• Homeschooling offers personalized education but might limit social interactions.
• Antibiotic resistance is a burgeoning global crisis spurred by over-prescription and misuse.
• Gender-neutral parenting challenges traditional norms and fosters an inclusive environment.
• Augmented reality will reshape education, making it more interactive and immersive.
• Binge-watching culture is reshaping entertainment consumption and impacts mental health.
• Marine conservation zones protect biodiversity and ensure sustainable fishing practices.
• Intermittent fasting has health benefits beyond weight loss, including cognitive and cardiac improvements.
• Digital detox retreats answer the modern need to disconnect and recharge mentally.
• Museums in the digital age must evolve to remain relevant and engage younger generations.
• Public transport investments reduce urban congestion and carbon footprints.
• Plant-based diets mitigate environmental degradation and promote holistic health.
• Consumer data collection straddles the line between business intelligence and privacy invasion.
• Urban vertical gardens can revolutionize urban agriculture and combat pollution.
• Telemedicine is revolutionizing healthcare access, especially in remote areas.
• Biodegradable packaging is the future of sustainability in the retail industry.
• Microfinancing empowers grassroots entrepreneurs, especially in developing countries.
• Language learning apps are democratizing education but cannot replace traditional methods entirely.
• Carpooling and ride-sharing reduce urban emissions and promote a shared economy.
• Theaters in the digital age face challenges from streaming platforms but offer a unique experience.
• 3D printing will revolutionize manufacturing, reducing waste and speeding production.
• Sleep’s role is underestimated in cognitive function and overall health.
• Ocean cleanup initiatives combat the plastic crisis but require global cooperation.
• Gamified learning platforms enhance student engagement and retention.
• Blockchain technology offers secure data management but is energy-consuming and requires widespread adoption.
• Historical fiction novels blend factual events with imaginative storytelling, enhancing both education and entertainment.
• Zero waste initiatives promote sustainable living, combating the throwaway culture of modern society.
• Telecommuting benefits the environment and worker satisfaction, but challenges team dynamics.
• Green architecture is the intersection of design and sustainability, making it vital for future urban planning.
• Astronomical tourism opens the wonders of the universe but requires careful management to protect natural nightscapes.
• The rise of abooks redefines reading, making literature accessible in our multitasking age.
• Gene editing techniques hold promise for medical breakthroughs, yet they introduce ethical dilemmas.
• Agroforestry practices enhance biodiversity, soil health, and offer economic benefits to farmers.
• Veganism goes beyond diet; it’s an ethical stance against animal exploitation.
• Cloud computing streamlines data storage but introduces security concerns.
• Holistic medicine integrates mind and body healing, challenging conventional medical paradigms.
• Subscription-based business models resonate with modern consumers, ensuring steady revenue for businesses.
• Cultural immersion travel deepens understanding, combating shallow tourist experiences.
• Biometrics is revolutionizing security, yet poses personal privacy risks.
• Freelance economies offer freedom and flexibility, contrasting the stability of traditional job markets.
• Biodiversity conservation is essential for ecosystem stability and the survival of humanity.
• Mental health days acknowledge the importance of psychological well-being in the workplace.
• Solar power technology is rapidly advancing, making it a feasible replacement for fossil fuels.
• Civic education is crucial in fostering informed and active citizens in democracies.
• Edible insect consumption addresses food sustainability and introduces new culinary experiences.
• Urban beekeeping supports declining bee populations and promotes local food production.
• Mobile health apps enhance personal health management but require stringent data protection measures.
• Trade school education is equally valuable as traditional college degrees, offering practical skills.
• Elderly care robots alleviate human caregiver burdens but prompt questions about emotional connections.
• Second language acquisition enriches cognitive abilities and cultural understanding.
• Craftsmanship in the digital age celebrates hands-on creation amidst automated mass production.
• Ocean wave energy conversion is a promising, untapped sustainable energy resource.
• Diverse representation in media is essential for societal inclusivity and combating stereotypes.
• Microplastics in water sources pose severe environmental and health concerns.
• Fair trade products support ethical consumerism and uplift marginalized producers.
• Hybrid learning models combine online and offline methods, optimizing educational outcomes.
• Multi-generational households foster family bonding but present unique challenges.
• Urban rewilding projects revitalize natural habitats in cityscapes, supporting biodiversity.
• Digital art forms elevate traditional art through technology, yet spark debates on authenticity.
• Food forest initiatives enhance sustainable agriculture, merging productivity with ecosystem health.
• Biophilic design in offices boosts worker productivity and well-being.
• Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable solution to global water scarcity issues.
• Paperless offices reduce environmental impact and increase organizational efficiency.
• Drama therapy offers transformative healing, using performance as a therapeutic tool.
• Ethical AI development balances technological advancement with humane considerations.
• Micro-adventures encourage local exploration, redefining the concept of travel.
• Refurbishing old buildings preserves historical heritage and is environmentally responsible.
• Inclusive toy designs reflect diverse societies, promoting acceptance from a young age.
• Afforestation projects combat deforestation, sequester carbon, and restore habitats.

Thesis Sentence Examples for Essay

Crafting an engaging thesis statement for an essay is crucial. It provides clarity, introduces the main topic, and sets the essay’s tone. This concise yet impactful statement is what keeps readers invested, guiding them through the content.

• Climatic changes influence biodiversity, challenging ecosystems worldwide.
• Digital currencies have revolutionized the global financial system, making transactions more transparent.
• Remote working is a viable alternative to traditional office environments, promoting flexibility.
• Ancient civilizations left imprints on modern cultures, influencing art, politics, and philosophy.
• E-learning platforms provide democratized education, making knowledge accessible to all.
• Artificial intelligence is redefining industries, enhancing efficiency, and customer experiences.
• Organic farming supports sustainable agriculture, providing healthier produce options.
• Sports and physical activities contribute to improved mental health and overall well-being.
• Alternative energy sources are the key to addressing global warming and ensuring sustainable energy.
• The role of media is pivotal in shaping public opinion, especially in this digital age.

Thesis Sentence Examples for High School

High school essays require precise thesis statements, laying the foundation for budding scholars to express their arguments. A strong thesis guides readers, ensuring they grasp the main idea being conveyed.

• Uniforms in schools promote equality among students, reducing social discriminations.
• Extracurricular activities enhance the overall development of high school students.
• Advanced technology has reshaped classroom dynamics, promoting interactive learning.
• Peer pressure in high schools plays a significant role in shaping teenagers’ personalities.
• Summer vacations provide students with a break, enhancing productivity during academic years.
• Counseling sessions in schools benefit students, addressing their emotional and academic needs.
• School libraries encourage reading habits, supporting comprehensive learning.
• Health education should be a mandatory part of the high school curriculum.
• Bullying in schools affects students’ mental health, necessitating strict preventive measures.
• Homework assignments reinforce classroom teachings, ensuring better understanding.

Thesis Sentence Starter Examples

Kickstarting an essay with a compelling thesis statement ensures the reader’s instant engagement. These starter thesis examples set the stage for detailed arguments and discussions.

• Given the rising pollution, eco-friendly vehicles are the need of the hour.
• In the realm of literature, Shakespeare’s works stand unmatched in their depth.
• Considering the health benefits, regular exercise should be a daily routine for everyone.
• Amidst technological advancements, preserving privacy is paramount.
• With the surge in online communication, face-to-face interactions remain invaluable.
• Observing the economic patterns, sustainable business models prove more beneficial long-term.
• Facing the challenge of global warming, renewable energy sources become indispensable.
• Through centuries of art evolution, Renaissance art holds a special place in history.
• Given the prevalence of mental health issues, therapy and counseling are essential services.
• In light of recent events, community building becomes vital for societal progress.

How do you start a thesis sentence?

A thesis sentence serves as the cornerstone of an essay, offering a concise summary of the main idea or claim. Crafting an impactful thesis sentence requires precision and clarity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start:

• Understand the Question: Before diving in, understand the essay prompt or research question thoroughly. Knowing the question helps you tailor the thesis effectively.
• Brainstorm: Jot down initial ideas that come to mind. This rough list can be refined later.
• Narrow Down: Ensure your thesis focuses on a specific aspect instead of being overly broad. For instance, instead of “Eating vegetables is good,” specify why and how, like “Eating leafy greens aids digestion due to their high fiber content.”
• Take a Stand: A thesis isn’t just a statement; it often presents an argument. Make sure you’re presenting a perspective or an opinion.
• Be Clear and Concise: Avoid jargon and complicated sentences. Keep it direct and to the point.
• Avoid Clichés and Generalizations: Using worn-out phrases or overly generalized statements weakens your thesis.
• Ensure it’s Debatable: An effective thesis often presents an argument that could be challenged. For instance, “Social media affects mental health” is more debatable than “The earth revolves around the sun.”
• Revise and Refine: After drafting, revisit your thesis. Can it be clearer or more concise? Does it thoroughly represent what your essay will discuss?
• Seek Feedback: Sharing your thesis with peers or mentors can provide valuable insights.
• Position Appropriately: Typically, the thesis is placed at the end of the introduction, setting the stage for the rest of the essay.

What is a thesis sentence in an essay?

A thesis sentence, often referred to as a thesis statement, is a single sentence in an essay (usually appearing in the introduction) that encapsulates the essay’s main idea, argument, or focus. It offers readers a lens through which they can understand the purpose and direction of the essay.

Characteristics of a Thesis Sentence:

• Specificity: It pinpoints the main topic of your essay, avoiding vague generalizations.
• Assertiveness: It takes a clear stance or position on the topic.
• Relevance: It sets the tone and direction for the entire essay, ensuring that readers know what to expect.
• Debatable Nature: Good thesis sentences can be argued, offering a perspective or viewpoint on a subject.
• Clarity: It’s articulated in clear and straightforward language.
• Conciseness: It’s typically just one or two sentences long, no matter how complex the topic might be.
• Guide for the Reader: Think of it as a map or guidepost for your readers, giving them a clear idea of what the essay will discuss.

For instance, in an essay about the effects of technology on communication, a thesis sentence might be, “While modern technology has many benefits, its overuse has led to decreased face-to-face communication, leading to feelings of isolation in individuals.” This statement provides a clear position and direction for the essay.

How do you write a Thesis Sentence? – Step by Step Guide

Crafting a compelling thesis sentence is crucial, as it sets the tone and direction for the entirety of your essay or research paper. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your thesis sentence is effective and impactful:

• Research Your Topic: Before you can form an opinion or argument, you need to have a clear understanding of your topic. Dive into trusted resources and gather information.
• Understand the Prompt: If you’re writing an essay based on a prompt, make sure you fully grasp what’s being asked.
• Brainstorm Ideas: Note down any thoughts, perspectives, or arguments related to your topic. This brainstorming can form the foundation of your thesis.
• Narrow Your Focus: A good thesis is specific and to the point. Narrow down your topic to a specific aspect that you want to focus on.
• Formulate an Opinion: Your thesis should not just state a fact. It should convey an opinion or take a stance on an issue.
• Use Clear and Concise Language: Avoid complex jargon or overly long sentences. Your thesis should be understandable to a broad audience.
• Ensure It’s Debatable: Your thesis should present a claim or argument that others could reasonably dispute.
• Position Properly: Typically, your thesis sentence should be placed at the end of your essay’s introductory paragraph.
• Revise and Refine: Don’t hesitate to revisit and tweak your thesis as your essay evolves. Sometimes, as you write and explore your topic further, your thesis might need adjustment.
• Seek Feedback: Have peers or instructors review your thesis sentence. They might offer invaluable insights or ways to strengthen it.

Tips for Using Thesis Sentences

• Stay Consistent: Ensure that your essay remains consistent with your thesis. Each paragraph should contribute to or elaborate on the argument or claim you’ve made.
• Avoid Generalizations: Phrases like “Everyone knows,” “Since the beginning of time,” or “All people think” tend to weaken your thesis. Stick to specifics.
• Steer Clear of Clichés: Originality strengthens your thesis. Relying on clichéd phrases or ideas can dilute its impact.
• Stay Flexible: As you delve deeper into writing your essay, you might find more relevant points that can make your thesis even stronger. Don’t be rigid; be ready to adjust your thesis if needed.
• Use Strong Language: Words like “might,” “maybe,” “perhaps,” can make your thesis sound uncertain. Choose assertive language to convey confidence in your argument.
• Support Your Thesis: Throughout your essay, continuously provide evidence and examples that back up the claim made in your thesis.
• Reiterate Your Thesis: In your conclusion, restate your thesis (though not verbatim) to remind readers of your main argument as you wrap up your essay.

Remember, your thesis sentence is the backbone of your essay. It sets the tone, direction, and foundation upon which the rest of your arguments and points will be built. Crafting it with care will set the stage for a compelling and well-structured essay.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

Thesis Statements

What this handout is about.

This handout describes what a thesis statement is, how thesis statements work in your writing, and how you can craft or refine one for your draft.

Introduction

Writing in college often takes the form of persuasion—convincing others that you have an interesting, logical point of view on the subject you are studying. Persuasion is a skill you practice regularly in your daily life. You persuade your roommate to clean up, your parents to let you borrow the car, your friend to vote for your favorite candidate or policy. In college, course assignments often ask you to make a persuasive case in writing. You are asked to convince your reader of your point of view. This form of persuasion, often called academic argument, follows a predictable pattern in writing. After a brief introduction of your topic, you state your point of view on the topic directly and often in one sentence. This sentence is the thesis statement, and it serves as a summary of the argument you’ll make in the rest of your paper.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement:

• tells the reader how you will interpret the significance of the subject matter under discussion.
• is a road map for the paper; in other words, it tells the reader what to expect from the rest of the paper.
• directly answers the question asked of you. A thesis is an interpretation of a question or subject, not the subject itself. The subject, or topic, of an essay might be World War II or Moby Dick; a thesis must then offer a way to understand the war or the novel.
• makes a claim that others might dispute.
• is usually a single sentence near the beginning of your paper (most often, at the end of the first paragraph) that presents your argument to the reader. The rest of the paper, the body of the essay, gathers and organizes evidence that will persuade the reader of the logic of your interpretation.

If your assignment asks you to take a position or develop a claim about a subject, you may need to convey that position or claim in a thesis statement near the beginning of your draft. The assignment may not explicitly state that you need a thesis statement because your instructor may assume you will include one. When in doubt, ask your instructor if the assignment requires a thesis statement. When an assignment asks you to analyze, to interpret, to compare and contrast, to demonstrate cause and effect, or to take a stand on an issue, it is likely that you are being asked to develop a thesis and to support it persuasively. (Check out our handout on understanding assignments for more information.)

How do I create a thesis?

A thesis is the result of a lengthy thinking process. Formulating a thesis is not the first thing you do after reading an essay assignment. Before you develop an argument on any topic, you have to collect and organize evidence, look for possible relationships between known facts (such as surprising contrasts or similarities), and think about the significance of these relationships. Once you do this thinking, you will probably have a “working thesis” that presents a basic or main idea and an argument that you think you can support with evidence. Both the argument and your thesis are likely to need adjustment along the way.

Writers use all kinds of techniques to stimulate their thinking and to help them clarify relationships or comprehend the broader significance of a topic and arrive at a thesis statement. For more ideas on how to get started, see our handout on brainstorming .

How do I know if my thesis is strong?

If there’s time, run it by your instructor or make an appointment at the Writing Center to get some feedback. Even if you do not have time to get advice elsewhere, you can do some thesis evaluation of your own. When reviewing your first draft and its working thesis, ask yourself the following :

• Do I answer the question? Re-reading the question prompt after constructing a working thesis can help you fix an argument that misses the focus of the question. If the prompt isn’t phrased as a question, try to rephrase it. For example, “Discuss the effect of X on Y” can be rephrased as “What is the effect of X on Y?”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? If your thesis simply states facts that no one would, or even could, disagree with, it’s possible that you are simply providing a summary, rather than making an argument.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? Thesis statements that are too vague often do not have a strong argument. If your thesis contains words like “good” or “successful,” see if you could be more specific: why is something “good”; what specifically makes something “successful”?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? If a reader’s first response is likely to  be “So what?” then you need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue.
• Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. It’s okay to change your working thesis to reflect things you have figured out in the course of writing your paper. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? If a reader’s first response is “how?” or “why?” your thesis may be too open-ended and lack guidance for the reader. See what you can add to give the reader a better take on your position right from the beginning.

Suppose you are taking a course on contemporary communication, and the instructor hands out the following essay assignment: “Discuss the impact of social media on public awareness.” Looking back at your notes, you might start with this working thesis:

Social media impacts public awareness in both positive and negative ways.

You can use the questions above to help you revise this general statement into a stronger thesis.

• Do I answer the question? You can analyze this if you rephrase “discuss the impact” as “what is the impact?” This way, you can see that you’ve answered the question only very generally with the vague “positive and negative ways.”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not likely. Only people who maintain that social media has a solely positive or solely negative impact could disagree.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? No. What are the positive effects? What are the negative effects?
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? No. Why are they positive? How are they positive? What are their causes? Why are they negative? How are they negative? What are their causes?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? No. Why should anyone care about the positive and/or negative impact of social media?

After thinking about your answers to these questions, you decide to focus on the one impact you feel strongly about and have strong evidence for:

Because not every voice on social media is reliable, people have become much more critical consumers of information, and thus, more informed voters.

This version is a much stronger thesis! It answers the question, takes a specific position that others can challenge, and it gives a sense of why it matters.

Let’s try another. Suppose your literature professor hands out the following assignment in a class on the American novel: Write an analysis of some aspect of Mark Twain’s novel Huckleberry Finn. “This will be easy,” you think. “I loved Huckleberry Finn!” You grab a pad of paper and write:

Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn is a great American novel.

You begin to analyze your thesis:

• Do I answer the question? No. The prompt asks you to analyze some aspect of the novel. Your working thesis is a statement of general appreciation for the entire novel.

Think about aspects of the novel that are important to its structure or meaning—for example, the role of storytelling, the contrasting scenes between the shore and the river, or the relationships between adults and children. Now you write:

In Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain develops a contrast between life on the river and life on the shore.

• Do I answer the question? Yes!
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not really. This contrast is well-known and accepted.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? It’s getting there–you have highlighted an important aspect of the novel for investigation. However, it’s still not clear what your analysis will reveal.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? Not yet. Compare scenes from the book and see what you discover. Free write, make lists, jot down Huck’s actions and reactions and anything else that seems interesting.
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? What’s the point of this contrast? What does it signify?”

After examining the evidence and considering your own insights, you write:

Through its contrasting river and shore scenes, Twain’s Huckleberry Finn suggests that to find the true expression of American democratic ideals, one must leave “civilized” society and go back to nature.

This final thesis statement presents an interpretation of a literary work based on an analysis of its content. Of course, for the essay itself to be successful, you must now present evidence from the novel that will convince the reader of your interpretation.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Anson, Chris M., and Robert A. Schwegler. 2010. The Longman Handbook for Writers and Readers , 6th ed. New York: Longman.

Lunsford, Andrea A. 2015. The St. Martin’s Handbook , 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St Martin’s.

Ramage, John D., John C. Bean, and June Johnson. 2018. The Allyn & Bacon Guide to Writing , 8th ed. New York: Pearson.

Ruszkiewicz, John J., Christy Friend, Daniel Seward, and Maxine Hairston. 2010. The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers , 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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