best topics for thesis statement

25 Thesis Statement Examples

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thesis statement examples and definition, explained below

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

school uniforms and dress codes, explained below

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

nature vs nurture examples and definition

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

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

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.”

6. Urbanization

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

7. Immigration

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

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

technology examples and definition explained below

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.”

cultural heritage examples and definition

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.”

pseudoscience examples and definition, explained below

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.”

13. Free Will

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

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?

work-life balance examples and definition, explained below

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.”

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

charter schools vs public schools, explained below

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

affirmative action example and definition, explained below

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

soft skills examples and definition, explained below

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.”

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.”

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

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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25 Thesis Statement Examples That Will Make Writing a Breeze

Understanding what makes a good thesis statement is one of the major keys to writing a great research paper or argumentative essay. The thesis statement is where you make a claim that will guide you through your entire paper. If you find yourself struggling to make sense of your paper or your topic, then it's likely due to a weak thesis statement.

Let's take a minute to first understand what makes a solid thesis statement, and what key components you need to write one of your own.

A thesis statement always goes at the beginning of the paper. It will typically be in the first couple of paragraphs of the paper so that it can introduce the body paragraphs, which are the supporting evidence for your thesis statement.

Your thesis statement should clearly identify an argument. You need to have a statement that is not only easy to understand, but one that is debatable. What that means is that you can't just put any statement of fact and have it be your thesis. For example, everyone knows that puppies are cute . An ineffective thesis statement would be, "Puppies are adorable and everyone knows it." This isn't really something that's a debatable topic.

Something that would be more debatable would be, "A puppy's cuteness is derived from its floppy ears, small body, and playfulness." These are three things that can be debated on. Some people might think that the cutest thing about puppies is the fact that they follow you around or that they're really soft and fuzzy.

All cuteness aside, you want to make sure that your thesis statement is not only debatable, but that it also actually thoroughly answers the research question that was posed. You always want to make sure that your evidence is supporting a claim that you made (and not the other way around). This is why it's crucial to read and research about a topic first and come to a conclusion later. If you try to get your research to fit your thesis statement, then it may not work out as neatly as you think. As you learn more, you discover more (and the outcome may not be what you originally thought).

Additionally, your thesis statement shouldn't be too big or too grand. It'll be hard to cover everything in a thesis statement like, "The federal government should act now on climate change." The topic is just too large to actually say something new and meaningful. Instead, a more effective thesis statement might be, "Local governments can combat climate change by providing citizens with larger recycling bins and offering local classes about composting and conservation." This is easier to work with because it's a smaller idea, but you can also discuss the overall topic that you might be interested in, which is climate change.

So, now that we know what makes a good, solid thesis statement, you can start to write your own. If you find that you're getting stuck or you are the type of person who needs to look at examples before you start something, then check out our list of thesis statement examples below.

Thesis statement examples

A quick note that these thesis statements have not been fully researched. These are merely examples to show you what a thesis statement might look like and how you can implement your own ideas into one that you think of independently. As such, you should not use these thesis statements for your own research paper purposes. They are meant to be used as examples only.

Vaccinations Because many children are unable to vaccinate due to illness, we must require that all healthy and able children be vaccinated in order to have herd immunity.
Educational Resources for Low-Income Students Schools should provide educational resources for low-income students during the summers so that they don't forget what they've learned throughout the school year.
School Uniforms School uniforms may be an upfront cost for families, but they eradicate the visual differences in income between students and provide a more egalitarian atmosphere at school.
Populism The rise in populism on the 2016 political stage was in reaction to increasing globalization, the decline of manufacturing jobs, and the Syrian refugee crisis.
Public Libraries Libraries are essential resources for communities and should be funded more heavily by local municipalities.
Cyber Bullying With more and more teens using smartphones and social media, cyber bullying is on the rise. Cyber bullying puts a lot of stress on many teens, and can cause depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. Parents should limit the usage of smart phones, monitor their children's online activity, and report any cyber bullying to school officials in order to combat this problem.
Medical Marijuana for Veterans Studies have shown that the use of medicinal marijuana has been helpful to veterans who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Medicinal marijuana prescriptions should be legal in all states and provided to these veterans. Additional medical or therapy services should also be researched and implemented in order to help them re-integrate back into civilian life.
Work-Life Balance Corporations should provide more work from home opportunities and six-hour workdays so that office workers have a better work-life balance and are more likely to be productive when they are in the office.
Teaching Youths about Consensual Sex Although sex education that includes a discussion of consensual sex would likely lead to less sexual assault, parents need to teach their children the meaning of consent from a young age with age appropriate lessons.
Whether or Not to Attend University A degree from a university provides invaluable lessons on life and a future career, but not every high school student should be encouraged to attend a university directly after graduation. Some students may benefit from a trade school or a "gap year" where they can think more intensely about what it is they want to do for a career and how they can accomplish this.
Studying Abroad Studying abroad is one of the most culturally valuable experiences you can have in college. It is the only way to get completely immersed in another language and learn how other cultures and countries are different from your own.
Women's Body Image Magazines have done a lot in the last five years to include a more diverse group of models, but there is still a long way to go to promote a healthy woman's body image collectively as a culture.
Cigarette Tax Heavily taxing and increasing the price of cigarettes is essentially a tax on the poorest Americans, and it doesn't deter them from purchasing. Instead, the state and federal governments should target those economically disenfranchised with early education about the dangers of smoking.
Veganism A vegan diet, while a healthy and ethical way to consume food, indicates a position of privilege. It also limits you to other cultural food experiences if you travel around the world.
University Athletes Should be Compensated University athletes should be compensated for their service to the university, as it is difficult for these students to procure and hold a job with busy academic and athletic schedules. Many student athletes on scholarship also come from low-income neighborhoods and it is a struggle to make ends meet when they are participating in athletics.
Women in the Workforce Sheryl Sandberg makes a lot of interesting points in her best-selling book, Lean In , but she only addressed the very privileged working woman and failed to speak to those in lower-skilled, lower-wage jobs.
Assisted Suicide Assisted suicide should be legal and doctors should have the ability to make sure their patients have the end-of-life care that they want to receive.
Celebrity and Political Activism Although Taylor Swift's lyrics are indicative of a feminist perspective, she should be more politically active and vocal to use her position of power for the betterment of society.
The Civil War The insistence from many Southerners that the South seceded from the Union for states' rights versus the fact that they seceded for the purposes of continuing slavery is a harmful myth that still affects race relations today.
Blue Collar Workers Coal miners and other blue-collar workers whose jobs are slowly disappearing from the workforce should be re-trained in jobs in the technology sector or in renewable energy. A program to re-train these workers would not only improve local economies where jobs have been displaced, but would also lead to lower unemployment nationally.
Diversity in the Workforce Having a diverse group of people in an office setting leads to richer ideas, more cooperation, and more empathy between people with different skin colors or backgrounds.
Re-Imagining the Nuclear Family The nuclear family was traditionally defined as one mother, one father, and 2.5 children. This outdated depiction of family life doesn't quite fit with modern society. The definition of normal family life shouldn't be limited to two-parent households.
Digital Literacy Skills With more information readily available than ever before, it's crucial that students are prepared to examine the material they're reading and determine whether or not it's a good source or if it has misleading information. Teaching students digital literacy and helping them to understand the difference between opinion or propaganda from legitimate, real information is integral.
Beauty Pageants Beauty pageants are presented with the angle that they empower women. However, putting women in a swimsuit on a stage while simultaneously judging them on how well they answer an impossible question in a short period of time is cruel and purely for the amusement of men. Therefore, we should stop televising beauty pageants.
Supporting More Women to Run for a Political Position In order to get more women into political positions, more women must run for office. There must be a grassroots effort to educate women on how to run for office, who among them should run, and support for a future candidate for getting started on a political career.

Still stuck? Need some help with your thesis statement?

If you are still uncertain about how to write a thesis statement or what a good thesis statement is, be sure to consult with your teacher or professor to make sure you're on the right track. It's always a good idea to check in and make sure that your thesis statement is making a solid argument and that it can be supported by your research.

After you're done writing, it's important to have someone take a second look at your paper so that you can ensure there are no mistakes or errors. It's difficult to spot your own mistakes, which is why it's always recommended to have someone help you with the revision process, whether that's a teacher, the writing center at school, or a professional editor such as one from ServiceScape .

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Thesis Writing

Thesis Topics

Interesting Thesis Topics & Ideas To Get Started

17 min read

Thesis Topics for Students

We’ll start with a comprehensive list of thesis ideas for students, then move on to topics for multiple fields.

Thesis Topics for College Students

Exploring the psychological effects of student loan debt on college graduates
The challenges and opportunities of globalization
The role of education and social mobility in reducing inequality
The impact of immigration on the economy and society
The potential of new technologies to improve healthcare outcomes
The impact of online learning on student engagement and achievement
What is the role of artificial intelligence in business decision-making?
High school bullying and its long-term effects on mental health and social adjustment
The challenges and opportunities of diversity and inclusion in education
The impact of early childhood education on long-term success

Senior Thesis Topics

The industrial revolution has increased the gap between the rich and the poor. How?
What are the effects of global warming on the world’s population?
Feminism is becoming as bad as racism. How?
The relationship between social media usage and perceptions of loneliness
The long-term effects of income inequality on economic growth
Placement by age vs. placement by academic ability. Which should be preferred?
How have viruses such as HIV-AIDS, affected the African economy?
What are the common sleep disorders and their treatments?
Using animals for sports and entertainment: Is it legal or illegal?
Discuss Trump’s “America First” trade and foreign policy.

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Bachelor Thesis Topics

The impact of E-Sports on traditional sports and the future of competitive gaming
The economics of renewable energy transition: Case study of Germany
The influence of music on cognitive performance and productivity in the workplace
The influence of social media on political movements and activism
The ethical implications of gene editing technologies: A case study on CRISPR-Cas9
Urban green spaces and their impact on mental health: A case study of Singapore
The relationship between smartphone use and sleep quality in young adults
Investigating the psychological factors influencing consumer brand loyalty
Cybersecurity threats and mitigation strategies for small and medium-sized enterprises
The impact of video games on cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities in children

Masters Thesis Topics

Discuss the relationship between literature and the political climate in the 18th century
Explain the relationship between rational thinking and religion
The Civil War is the greatest inspiration for art. Discuss the concept
Gun violence in the USA during the 2010s: A comparative analysis
Cyberbullying can lead to suicides - A case study of Australia
Campus shootings in the USA: Discuss the causes and risk factors
Labor markets in China: An in-depth analysis
What are the impacts of global warming on weather conditions in Iceland?
Explain the women's empowerment in Saudi Arabia in the 2000s
Write a detailed comparison of the anti-nuclear movements in Germany and Japan

MBA Thesis Topics

Discuss a case study of rural marketing projects.
What are the impacts of reducing the retirement age in America?
Mergers and acquisitions: Evaluating the factors contributing to success or failure
How can the banking sector influence the economic growth of India?
Analysis of global supply chain resilience in the post-pandemic business environment
Online marketing on social media platforms is useful for small companies. How?
Write a comparative study of organized trading in the USA and UK
How is technical knowledge essential to make wise financial decisions?
How can consumer purchases influence brand design?
Explore the positive and negative impacts of mobile banking

PhD Thesis Topics

What are the primary professors’ teaching patterns in China?
Discuss the social benefits of same-sex marriages
Discuss the legal issue of child labor in Third World countries.
What is the positive impact of music therapy on patients with brain injuries?
Explain the impacts of 9/11 on new policies against terrorism
Discuss the marketing strategies used in political campaigns
The US presence in Syria: Is it providing justice or violating the law?
Elaborate on the preventive measures to fight obesity among teenagers.
How to treat injuries in diabetic patients?
What are the political and economic effects of Brexit on the UK?

Thesis Topics for Multiple Fields

Here are some interesting and easy to write thesis topics from multiple fields of study.

Thesis Topics in Education

Special education policies in the USA: Are they effective or ineffective?
Why is studying abroad a legitimate excuse for traveling?
Strategies for supporting undergraduate students' transition to college life
Family involvement has a direct impact on a child's performance. Discuss how?
Why are students more likely to do the homework assigned by good-looking professors?
Role of Parental Involvement in early childhood education for academic readiness
Explain the development of emotional intelligence for modern education
Informal learning in rural areas through social networks. Is it possible?
Public school students interact at the same level as the other students. Is it true?
How can reality television disempower students to some extent?

Thesis Topics in Healthcare

How does increased physical activity promote healthy aging?
The impact of telemedicine on healthcare access and quality
Mental health stigma: Addressing barriers to seeking and receiving care
How do Supervised Machine Learning models help in Breast Cancer diagnosis?
Exploring the mental health implications of prolonged pandemic-related stress and isolation
Innovations in remote patient monitoring for chronic disease management
How can we improve the affordability of healthcare without sacrificing quality?
Strategies for addressing the global burden of non-communicable diseases
How can we use social media to promote health literacy and engagement?
How can we use genomics to improve disease prevention and treatment?

Thesis Topics for Computer Science

Quantum computing: The future of data processing and cryptography
How does the feedback system in personnel management work?
Describe the development of an automated workplace
How can data be analyzed by using robust AI algorithms?
Discuss the benefits of the development of a taxi service website
The dark web: Anonymity, security, and law enforcement challenges
Verification of webpage layouts. How is it beneficial?
What are the impacts of mobile computing on global development?
Big data analytics for predictive maintenance in IoT systems
How can AI-assisted surveillance systems decrease mass school shootings in the US?

Architecture Thesis Topics

How have religious buildings in the British Empire affected architecture?
Discuss the role of architects in combating the impacts of climate change
Why should we construct sustainable buildings for offices?
Discuss a case study of small houses to solve homelessness
Why should we develop public places in small cities?
How can architecture revitalize urban areas sustainably?
Are underwater hotels sustainable?
Discuss the transformation of urban design in the 21st century
How can we construct houses in developed countries with low income?
How can architectural design create healing environments in healthcare facilities?

Thesis Topics for Interior Design

Role of biophilic design in reducing stress and anxiety in workplaces
Designing interior spaces for people with dementia
The use of technology to create immersive and interactive interior experiences
Design of interior spaces for future generations
Impact of culture on prisons and other correctional facilities design
Use of universal design to create inclusive restaurants and cafés
Use of materials and finishes to create a sustainable and resilient built environment
What is the impact of interior design on human performance?
Creating inclusive and accessible interior spaces for people with disabilities
What is the future of interior design in the age of climate change?

Thesis Topics for Textile Designing

How to design textiles that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional?
Environmental impact of textile design and how to reduce it
How can textile design improve the performance of sportswear and activewear?
Design a textile collection that is accessible and affordable for people with disabilities
Develop a sustainable textile production process that reduces environmental impact
Investigate the impact of textile design on consumer behavior
Explore the use of sustainable materials in textile design
Challenges and opportunities of new technologies in textile design
Ethical implications of materials and production methods in textile design
How can textile design reduce fashion waste and promote circularity?

Psychology Thesis Topics

Why is emotional intelligence an important factor in professional satisfaction?
The notion of the self – Is it a myth or reality?
Evaluating the efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral
Therapy in managing anxiety
Self-efficacy and academic achievement: A longitudinal study of students
A good IQ level can have long-term benefits for children. Discuss how?
How are emotional disorders directly connected to social cognition?
Analyze the relationship between emotional and episodic memory
How can rational thinking allow us to make better decisions?
How common is depression among homosexual teenagers?
What are the psychological techniques to help obese teens?

Political Science Thesis Topics

Compare the foreign policies of the US and the UK
What were the causes of the American Revolution?
How is religion used as a political power?
What is the role of social movements in politics?
Discuss the consequences of the Civil War
Immigration policies and their impact on social cohesion and diversity
The impact of campaign finance reform on political corruption
What are the negotiation methods during wartime?
Explain the difference between political and armed conflicts
Give a detailed review of the Human Rights Act 1998

Thesis Topics for Law Students

The role of international law in addressing global cybersecurity threats
Human rights and refugee law: Analyzing the legal status of stateless individuals
Legal aspects of intellectual property rights in the fashion industry
Consumer protection laws in E-Commerce: Challenges and emerging trends
How can we ensure that plea bargaining is used fairly and ethically?
Examining the legal and ethical implications of genetic testing and genetic privacy
The evolution of copyright law in the digital era: Balancing innovation and protection
How has globalization changed the landscape of international law?
What is the future of International Law in a world of increasing nationalism?
The impact of race and ethnicity on criminal sentencing

International Relations Thesis Topics

What is the impact of Russia’s intervention in Syria?
Discuss the trade relations between India and Pakistan
Discuss the impacts of the US sanctions on Iran
Explain the reasons for OIC failure
What is the US foreign policy towards North Korea?
Critically analyze the human rights violations in Kashmir
What is the policy of the United States toward Russia?
Discuss lessons learned politically since 9/11
Political problems in Africa have been affected by colonial rule. How?
Discuss how is Israel playing the victim card in the war against Palestine

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History Thesis Topics

How has World War II saved the world?
What is the impact of Buddhism on the Chinese empire?
Discuss the struggles of the North American colonies for independence
Describe the role of the monarchy in the domestic policy of Great Britain
Discuss the impacts of the North Korean nuclear program in Northeast Asia
Evaluate the American and Britain relations during the Cold War Era
Discuss the global impacts of the Great Depression
Explain the Women's rights and woman suffrage: 1848-1920.
Enlist the Military Innovations between WWI & WWII
Discuss the feminist movement from 1845 to 1920

Criminal Justice Thesis Topics

What are the ways to deal with domestic violence?
How can we reduce racial disparities in the criminal justice system?
How is electronic monitoring an abuse of privacy rights?
What can be done to prevent cyber crimes?
What are the common child abuse crimes committed?
How can body cameras reduce police violence?
Why are men more likely to get the death penalty?
How can drug courts help people with addictions?
Discuss the strategies used to stop criminal behavior
Discuss the effectiveness of capital punishment in deterring crime

Thesis Topics in English Literature

The influence of feminist theory on the work of Margaret Atwood
Discuss the effectiveness of verbal communication in displaying feelings
How do people communicate when there is no shared language?
Language travels through time. Discuss the concept
Elaborate on the advantages of learning a second language in graduate school
Discuss the effectiveness of non-verbal communication for displaying emotions.
Shakespearean adaptations in modern literature and film
Narrative techniques in experimental literature and their impact on storytelling
What are the benefits of learning two languages at once as a child?
How to best communicate: Verbally or non-verbally?

Thesis Topics in Mass Communication

Effects of user-generated content on news credibility and trust in online journalism
Impact of deep fake technology on media manipulation and trust in visual media
The role of media in promoting political polarization and extremism
The challenges of reporting on sensitive topics such as war, violence, and trauma
The ethics of using media to exploit or harm vulnerable populations
The influence of TikTok on youth culture and entertainment consumption
How does sports journalism respond to evolving media landscapes?
The role of social media influencers in shaping brand image and consumer behavior
The role of media in promoting corporate interests and agendas
What is the role of media in the surveillance state and the erosion of privacy?

Thesis Topics in Business Administration

How is digital transformation changing business models and strategies?
What role does venture capital play in funding and supporting startups?
The role of data analytics in decision-making and improving business outcomes
The challenges and opportunities of expanding into new markets
What factors influence call center industry employee retention?
Comparing leadership structures in manufacturing and retail sectors
How do varying leadership styles impact worker performance?
Challenges and opportunities of managing supply chains in a globalized economy
Is a Human Resources Officer still relevant in today's businesses?
What is the impact of internal communications on organizational objectives?

Thesis Topics in Physical Education

Role of physical education in preventing childhood obesity
Impact of physical activity on sleep quality and overall well-being
Influence of physical education on self-esteem and body image in adolescents
What strategies promote gender equity in physical education?
How can cultural competency be integrated into physical education programs?
How does virtual physical education impact student engagement?
What factors contribute to successful youth sports and athlete development?
How does assessment and feedback improve student learning in physical education?
How can older adults be encouraged to maintain active lifestyles?
Does physical education have a measurable impact on academic performance?

Civil Engineering Thesis Topics

Assessing the impact of climate change on infrastructure resilience
Optimizing traffic flow and transportation systems for urban mobility
Risk assessment and management in civil engineering projects
Green infrastructure and stormwater management in urban environments
Geotechnical engineering challenges in high-rise building construction
Resilient infrastructure for mitigating the impact of extreme weather events
Smart grids and energy-efficient infrastructure for future cities
The role of 3D printing in construction: Feasibility and applications
Augmented reality and virtual reality in civil engineering education and design
What are the risk factors involved in building skyscrapers?

Cyber Security Thesis Topics

How can network security deal with cyber crimes?
How can an informational system protect your data?
How can we prevent the growth of cyber hackers?
What are the different types of cyber crimes?
How can we make network security affordable for everyone?
Discuss the effectiveness of malware protection software.
How can we improve cybersecurity in wireless networks?
What are the ways to prevent cyber attacks in organizations?
How do people become cyber criminals?
What are the current trends in the field of cybercrime and security?

Sociology Thesis Topics

What are the consequences of adopting a child?
Discuss the concept of female empowerment in a conservative society
Organ transplantation in our society. Is it ethical?
Explain the diffusion and innovation in European culture
What are the challenges that most women face at workplaces?
How difficult is it to be a single parent in a society?
The impact of economic disparities on how people Live: A sociological study
Technology has changed the way we eat. How?
Violations of social norms can be a positive act. How?
What is the relationship between poverty and education?

Philosophy Thesis Topics

What is the nature of truth and reality in a post-modern world?
Is there any life after death?
Can a person be happy without friends and family?
Why is there a need to engage children in physical activities?
Will you have eternal satisfaction if you had all the wealth in the world?
How morality and religion are related to each other?
Why do people commit crimes when they’re at the brink of poverty?
How to develop a personal philosophy of life: Influences, values, and decision-making
Can free will exist in a deterministic universe, and what are its implications for agency and responsibility?
What is the nature of consciousness, and how does it relate to our perception of reality?

Economics Thesis Topics

Discuss the differences in commercial practices in rural and urban areas
Critically analyze regional divergence in Europe
Discuss the relationship between economic geography and the contemporary environment
What are the impacts of intellectual capital in growing markets?
Labor regulations are a way to solve the issue of unemployment. Discuss how?
Explain the factors that determine the market value of a business
What is the effect of labor force participation on the economy?
Discuss the impact of government expenditure on the economic growth of Australia
Discuss the impact of Brexit on small and middle businesses in the UK
Write a review of the aid and economic growth of developing economies

Want to know how to format thesis papers properly? Get expert guidance from our detailed blog!

Now that you have access to a wide range of thesis topics for multiple fields, you could use some tips to understand how you should pick a good thesis topic.

How to Choose a Good Thesis Topic?

Follow the easy tips given below to choose a good topic for your thesis.

steps-to-choose-a-good-thesis-topic-MyPerfectWords.com

The following is a detailed description of the tips for choosing thesis paper topics.

Know Your Target Audience : Understand your audience's preferences, opinions, and ideas, and always consider their feedback for better grades
Consider Your Strengths : Identify your skills and strengths, and focus on your areas of knowledge
Follow Your Interests : Select a topic that aligns with your passions and leverage your creativity for an engaging idea
Combine Different Ideas : Brainstorm multiple ideas based on your interests and knowledge to create a unique idea
Read and Find Gaps : Explore existing literature and research, to identify gaps or areas that require further investigation
Put Your Idea to the Test : Conduct small experiments or surveys to test your concept, and utilize data and human resources for a comprehensive analysis. Make sure to identify and address any flaws or weaknesses in your thesis idea.

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170 Original Thesis Topics and Ideas For Your Winning Paper

Throughout your college and graduate school career, you will be required to write hundreds of academic papers across myriad subjects. Choosing good thesis topics is just one of the major factors necessary to achieve academic excellence. This article does not tell you how to write a good thesis but focuses on the process of developing great senior thesis topics that are challenging yet don’t leave you feeling overwhelmed.

How to Develop and Choose Great Thesis Paper Topics?

Computer Science Thesis Topics

Psychology thesis topics, art history thesis topics, sociology thesis topics, economics thesis topics, psychology dissertation topics, architecture thesis topics, criminal justice thesis topics, philosophy thesis topics, history thesis topics, ms thesis topics, where you can find thesis writing help for your topics.

Our list of 170 free thesis statement topics is broken into 12 of the most popular subjects. These are only suggestions and you’re certainly encouraged to modify them as you deem appropriate. Keep in mind that good dissertation topics should aim to push the envelope of academic research while answering important scholarly questions within the field. Don’t feel constrained by what these thesis topics attempt to explore – what inspires your curiosity is the most important aspect of writing a thesis that warrants readership and appreciation.

How to Develop and Choose Great Thesis Topics?

Your thesis statement should be interesting.

You’ve likely heard over and over that the best master thesis topics should always be on something interesting – but does not take this to mean that it only applies to what a reader thinks is interesting. You should genuinely be curious about the topic you want to explore. This will invariably lead to more effective research, writing, and presentation of the chosen topic.

Make Sure You Can Find Enough Resources

Time is limited, and so too are resources. If your topic is too narrow you may not have access to all the resources you need to adequately answer the questions you seek. Ask the resource librarian for some dissertation topic examples to get a sense of the number of resources you will need to include in the bibliography and then triple that number. This is the average amount of research materials you will need to locate in your study.

Meet with Your Advisor to Discuss Options

Finally, you will need to meet with your academic advisor throughout the process of finishing your capstone project, so you will benefit from meeting with him or her as you consider your topics to discuss options. If, for instance, you are going over art history thesis topics , an advisor can point you to previous studies, research, resources, and more. You may find early that your topic may not be doable – and save yourself time by choosing altogether different.

Our List of Great Thesis Ideas On Any Subject

How have different methodologies changed the way comp-science is used in business?
How has the user interface changed the way society interacts with one another?
What are the advances in encryption and decryption we need to fight cybercrime?
In what ways have computer viruses altered international finance rules & regulations?
How do biometric systems affect the way data is recognized across financial industries?
Will artificial intelligence make human labor a thing of the past or will it only be a burden?
What are the best defense strategies companies should consider fighting cyber-attacks?
How will quantum computers change the way mainstream data is factored into primes?
A survey of how different technologies and algorithms can be used for parsing and indexing.
Technique to use when visualizing text categorization that has complex hierarchical structures and machine learning.
Different tools and techniques in the software required can be used to understand the UK.
How to have dependable and secure computing.
Definition and explanation of context-aware computing.
Top 5 challenges in database design and the information of system development?
What are the multiple dimensions or states of high-functioning schizophrenia in adults?
How effective is the DSM-IV in categorizing abnormal symptoms in young adults?
In what ways does a leader’s presence affect the way his sports teammates perform?
How does culture affect the way teaching programs are instituted around the world?
In what ways does chemotherapy affect the way patients get attention from family?
Is anger an emotion that can be controlled for the benefit of a person’s mental health?
What did the 9/11 attacks have on the general psychology of U.S. citizens toward immigrants?
How are LGBTQ teens likely to cope with pressures and how does it link to issues of depression?
Explain the social identity theory of Tajfel and Turner.
What are the REM phase and the continuous sleep disruption?
Defining how a brain functions when a person is in love.
How do the different forms of amnesia damage your brain activities?
What is the significance of a strong self-perception?
Is it possible for PTSD to lead to Alzheimer’s disease?
How do people respond to the world’s most famous art pieces in an age of social media?
In what ways is music considered to be a form of art when there are no actual tangible forms?
Are the building styles of the ancient world legitimate representations of artistic work?
Do you believe anyone will ever be able to have as much impact as the Renaissance greats?
In what ways has the value of art diminished in the last 25 years in terms of investment?
How does art affect the way humans develop creatively in terms of their communication?
What motivates people to invest in modern art despite there being such a high risk?
How does a modern artist make enough income in the days of technology and digital art?
Analyze the Monalisa painting and why it is popular.
What is the origin of the traditional Chinese and Japanese costumes?
What are the most popular pies of Mesopotamian art, and what made them popular?
How did Hinduism influence the early Indian Act?
Research on the construction of the Great Wall of China.
What is the origin of the Greek theatre?
How much influence do parents have on their children’s educational and social engagement?
In what ways do cross-cultural relationships change the way children think about the world?
What are the most important aspects of gender inequality at work and how is it fixed?
How much do food cultures link to anticipated health and welfare in American adults?
What is the relationship between ethnicity and the levels of completed education in children?
What are the biggest factors leading certain populations to alcohol or drug addiction?
How is media affecting the way youth view their images as a result of how they are represented?
In what ways has social media impacted the way America’s youth interacts with the world?
Impacts of Alcohol among the youths.
Adaption and the consequences of adopting a child.
Diffusion and innovation in European culture and what it means for the features of these countries.
How would people react if organ transplant gets completely banned?
What are the challenges that working women face in today’s society?
What are the impacts of life sentences, and should this be changed
What are the five major principles of global economics and how do they affect international law?
In what ways are developing countries in Asia affected by short and long-term econ policies?
How important is it for the average American investor to know about global economics?
In what ways should a person’s wealth be distributed to more philanthropic or charitable activities?
What do international economics offer the average American in terms of financial happiness?
How has the alcohol industry changed over the last century across different parts of Europe?
In what ways has big data mining affected the way global economics and financing have changed?
What are the main reasons why the Trump presidency has negatively affected international trade?
What is fiscal policy, and what should people know about it?
Define and explain three opportunity costs.
How do banks set the exchange rate?
What is the reason why some resources are rare?
What does economic forecasting entail?
What are the pros and cons of privatization?
What are the connections between employee satisfaction and how they perform at work?
How are women affected by misogynistic language in the workplace that emphasizes inequality?
In what ways does the formation of negative habits make it harder for people to learn new things?
What role does anxiety have in the way students score on standardized high school level tests?
How does jealousy determine how long or successful a marriage can be in today’s age of the web?
What effect does a person’s amount of time that is spent on social media impact his/her satisfaction?
Are humans becoming far more dependent on instant information and less likely to learn the truth?
What are some of the negative assumptions about women suffering from postpartum depression?
Some eating and personality disorder
What is the importance of communication in a relationship?
What are the social and psychological effects of virtue networks?
What role does a medium play in provoking aggression?
How does cognitive behavior therapy help in dealing with depressed adolescents?
How can depression and its risk factor be prevented?
In what ways did ancient architecture from Greece and Rome influence modern government buildings?
What impact did Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural style have on Los Angeles’ urban planning?
Why do historians believe the Egyptian Pyramids were created to their exact shape and scale?
How did Roman aqueducts impact the way communities evolved as a result of improved canals?
What dangers do the Venice canal systems face as a result of increasing temperatures and water levels?
How will architecture in major metropolitan areas change as a result of rising populations in the world?
Is architecture considered a science or an art and how does this affect the way we study it today?
What is parametric architecture and what other forms blend appropriately with it aesthetically?
Explain the construction of Time conception in the Architectural Realm.
Waterfront development- the process of beach convention and exhibition centers.
What is the design of ruled surfaces?
An analytic study of the design potential kinetic Architecture.
A survey of China from an archeologist’s point of view.
A look at Russian fairy-tale-style houses and huts.
How is jury selection affected by how politicians are perceived on social media?
Is it accurate to say that minorities receive a fair and unbiased trial in today’s political climate?
How do President Trump’s policies and comments targeting minorities affect their rights in court?
What challenges does cyber-crime present for lawmakers who have to put corporations on trial?
Should large corporations face larger crimes as a result of the amount of money they make publicly?
Why aren’t CEOs of multi-billion dollar companies held to the same criminal standards as the public?
Should human trafficking face larger penalties as a result of the dark web and ease of communication?
Does the internet perpetuate certain crimes as a result of its widespread and virtual anonymity?
The relationship between the police and people from different backgrounds.
What is the reliability of an eye-witness testimony?
What methods can be used to help prevent international drug trafficking?
Why does the crime rate increase during emergencies?
Why are men more likely to get death penalties?
In what ways does the drug court assist or hurt people with addiction?

Thesis Topics in Education

What are the biggest evolutionary changes to the major approaches in education throughout the world?
How have China’s educational methods changed in the last half-century to position them as world leaders?
Can educational programs in South America help those countries combat poverty in their communities?
Should core subjects be re-evaluated in light of the quickly changing needs of today’s modern world?
Should the United States make bigger investments in bringing tech tools to poorer school districts?
Can teachers continue to use traditional methods for grading when class size continues to increase?
Why do people lose the desire to learn new subjects in their adult years? How can this be addressed?
Should more parents be involved in schools’ educational policies and curriculum development?
Do graduate programs in education adequately prepare tomorrow’s teachers for the business world?
Are there any career development programs in Elementary schools?
What are the character development programs in elementary schools?
Should the use of the pass-fail grading be limited?
What is the impact of promoting parent volunteering in schools?
Teaching children with speech-language pathology.
How does the efficiency of classroom management help to reduce stress?
Is abortion a philosophical or political question? Should ethics be removed from this conversation?
Is it a must to lead an ethical life to achieve true human happiness in today’s competitive world?
What does it mean to support ethical farming practices in light of the world’s hunger problems?
Should parents have the ability to manipulate their children’s genetics and characteristics to an ideal?
How does genetic modification in animals affect our understanding of what we can do for humans?
In what ways do religious ethics and philosophy ethics contradict each other when it comes to crimes?
How does humanity’s history to commit evil acts affect the way we view our place in the world?
Is it morally ethical to love someone who is legally unattainable? (E.g., someone who is married).
Are contemporary philosophical theories inclusive of different societies or limiting to specific nations?
What can truly upset you, and in what ways can you deal with it?
Would you live your life more than once?
What do the beauty standards change often?
Are there situations where it is better to lie than tell the truth?
Some people think that love only lasts for three years. Is it true?
What is a perfect life? What prevents you from living it?
How has the rise and fall of famous and influential dictators changed throughout history?
How have the events leading to the 1980s conflicts in Afghanistan caused the turmoil we see today?
In what ways have border wars in South America led to increased asylum seekers fleeing those countries?
How did the North Atlantic Trade Agreement impact the way Europe has sought trade deals with China?
What impact did the Mormons have in shaping the American city landscape during the 19th century?
What role did Mormons have in further expelling Native Americans from their ancestral lands?
Why did the Southern States resist the freeing of slaves for so long? What economic factors were there?
What impact did pirates have on the development of Caribbean culture in Central America?
How have 21st-century marketing strategies affected how we value cultural history in the U.S.A?
Trends of migration through the years.
What is the history of immigration in the USA?
What causes the significant waves of migration in Syria?
How were women treated in the Soviet zone during WWII?
How did the fall of Hitler and the Nazis affect Germany?
The Spanish Inquisition- What is the truth behind its moral justification?
How do supercomputers and data mining affect political policy in today’s first-world governments?
In what ways have the roles of mediators changed in the world of globalized financial institutions?
How important is cultural awareness for large corporations? How is this different in small businesses?
Should politicians be allowed to maintain investments that can influence their political decisions?
Why are blind trusts necessary for anyone running for public office in today’s global economy?
What are the effects of bringing more technology into the home to automate day-to-day activities?
In what ways does automation keep people from controlling the same systems we want to be safe?
How does cyber activity affect how governments contribute to international economies?
How can we learn from past cultures to develop new societies where there is no poverty or hunger?
What was the correlation between political climate and literature during the eighteenth century?
What is the connection between religious conviction and rational thinking?
A comprehensive analysis of gun violence in the US.
Case study of Australia and how cyberbullying might result in suicides.
Civil war is the greatest inspiration for art. Discuss this concept.
Women empowerment in Saudi Arabia in the 2000s.

For more information on how to write a thesis or for more thesis ideas, check out what a professional writing site has to offer. On top of hundreds of free resources, you can pay to have a custom master’s thesis sample made from scratch or can have your work reviewed, edited, and proofread by an academic expert from our thesis writing services , whose job is to stay up-to-date on all educational requirements for capstone projects.

How to write a thesis statement + examples

What is a thesis statement?

Is a thesis statement a question, how do you write a good thesis statement, how do i know if my thesis statement is good, examples of thesis statements, helpful resources on how to write a thesis statement, frequently asked questions about writing a thesis statement, related articles.

A thesis statement is the main argument of your paper or thesis.

The thesis statement is one of the most important elements of any piece of academic writing . It is a brief statement of your paper’s main argument. Essentially, you are stating what you will be writing about.

You can see your thesis statement as an answer to a question. While it also contains the question, it should really give an answer to the question with new information and not just restate or reiterate it.

Your thesis statement is part of your introduction. Learn more about how to write a good thesis introduction in our introduction guide .

A thesis statement is not a question. A statement must be arguable and provable through evidence and analysis. While your thesis might stem from a research question, it should be in the form of a statement.

Tip: A thesis statement is typically 1-2 sentences. For a longer project like a thesis, the statement may be several sentences or a paragraph.

A good thesis statement needs to do the following:

Condense the main idea of your thesis into one or two sentences.
Answer your project’s main research question.
Clearly state your position in relation to the topic .
Make an argument that requires support or evidence.

Once you have written down a thesis statement, check if it fulfills the following criteria:

Your statement needs to be provable by evidence. As an argument, a thesis statement needs to be debatable.
Your statement needs to be precise. Do not give away too much information in the thesis statement and do not load it with unnecessary information.
Your statement cannot say that one solution is simply right or simply wrong as a matter of fact. You should draw upon verified facts to persuade the reader of your solution, but you cannot just declare something as right or wrong.

As previously mentioned, your thesis statement should answer a question.

If the question is:

What do you think the City of New York should do to reduce traffic congestion?

A good thesis statement restates the question and answers it:

In this paper, I will argue that the City of New York should focus on providing exclusive lanes for public transport and adaptive traffic signals to reduce traffic congestion by the year 2035.

Here is another example. If the question is:

How can we end poverty?

A good thesis statement should give more than one solution to the problem in question:

In this paper, I will argue that introducing universal basic income can help reduce poverty and positively impact the way we work.

The Writing Center of the University of North Carolina has a list of questions to ask to see if your thesis is strong .

A thesis statement is part of the introduction of your paper. It is usually found in the first or second paragraph to let the reader know your research purpose from the beginning.

In general, a thesis statement should have one or two sentences. But the length really depends on the overall length of your project. Take a look at our guide about the length of thesis statements for more insight on this topic.

Here is a list of Thesis Statement Examples that will help you understand better how to write them.

Every good essay should include a thesis statement as part of its introduction, no matter the academic level. Of course, if you are a high school student you are not expected to have the same type of thesis as a PhD student.

Here is a great YouTube tutorial showing How To Write An Essay: Thesis Statements .

How to Write a Thesis Statement (Full Guide + 60 Examples)

Crafting the perfect thesis statement is an art form that sets the foundation for your entire paper.

Here is how to write a thesis statement:

Write a thesis statement by clearly stating your topic, expressing your position, and providing key points. For example: “Social media impacts teens by influencing self-esteem, enabling cyberbullying, and shaping social interactions.” Be specific, concise, and arguable.

This ultimate guide will break down everything you need to know about how to write a thesis statement, plus 60 examples.

What Is a Thesis Statement?

Girl in a library using a laptop - How to Write a Thesis Statement

Table of Contents

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other piece of academic writing.

It presents the topic of your paper and your position on the topic, ideally in a single sentence.

Think of it as the roadmap to your paper—it guides your readers through your arguments and provides a clear direction.

Key Elements of a Thesis Statement

Clarity: Your thesis should be clear and specific.
Position: It should convey your stance on the topic.
Argument: The statement should make a claim that others might dispute.

Types of Thesis Statements

There are various types of thesis statements depending on the kind of paper you’re writing.

Here are the main ones:

Standard Method – This is the classic thesis statement used in many academic essays. It provides a straightforward approach, clearly stating the main argument or claim and outlining the supporting points.
Research Paper – Designed for research papers, this type involves extensive research and evidence. It presents a hypothesis or a central argument based on your research findings.
Informative Essay – Used for essays that aim to inform or explain a topic. It provides a clear summary of what the reader will learn.
Persuasive Essay – For essays meant to persuade or convince the reader of a particular point of view. It clearly states your position and outlines your main arguments.
Compare and Contrast Essay – Used when comparing two or more subjects. It highlights the similarities and differences between the subjects and presents a clear argument based on these comparisons.
Analytical Essay – Breaks down an issue or idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
Argumentative Essay – Makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence. It’s similar to the persuasive essay but usually requires more evidence and a more formal tone.
Expository Essay – Explains or describes a topic in a straightforward, logical manner. It provides a balanced analysis of a subject based on facts without opinions.
Narrative Essay – Tells a story or relates an event. The thesis statement for a narrative essay usually highlights the main point or lesson of the story.
Cause and Effect Essay – Explores the causes of a particular event or situation and its effects. It provides a clear argument about the cause and effect relationship.

How to Write a Thesis Statement (Standard Method)

Writing a standard thesis statement involves a few straightforward steps.

Here’s a detailed guide:

Identify Your Topic: What is your essay about?
Take a Stance: What is your position on the topic?
Outline Your Main Points: What are the key arguments that support your stance?
Combine All Elements: Formulate a single, coherent sentence that encompasses all the above points.
“Social media has a significant impact on teenagers because it influences their self-esteem, provides a platform for cyberbullying, and shapes their social interactions.”
“Climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate action because it threatens global ecosystems, endangers human health, and disrupts economies.”
“The rise of remote work is transforming the modern workplace by increasing flexibility, reducing overhead costs, and enhancing work-life balance.”
“School uniforms should be mandatory in public schools as they promote equality, reduce bullying, and simplify the morning routine.”
“Digital literacy is essential in today’s world because it improves communication, enhances job prospects, and enables informed decision-making.”

How to Write a Thesis Statement for a Research Paper

Research papers require a more detailed and evidence-based thesis.

Here’s how to craft one:

Start with a Research Question: What are you trying to find out?
Conduct Preliminary Research: Gather evidence and sources.
Formulate a Hypothesis: Based on your research, what do you think will happen?
Refine Your Thesis: Make it specific and arguable.
“The implementation of renewable energy sources can significantly reduce carbon emissions in urban areas, as evidenced by case studies in cities like Copenhagen and Vancouver.”
“Genetically modified crops have the potential to improve food security, but their impact on biodiversity and human health requires further investigation.”
“The use of artificial intelligence in healthcare can improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes, but ethical concerns about data privacy and algorithmic bias must be addressed.”
“Urban green spaces contribute to mental well-being and community cohesion, as demonstrated by longitudinal studies in various metropolitan areas.”
“Microplastic pollution in oceans poses a severe threat to marine life and human health, highlighting the need for stricter waste management policies.”

How to Write a Thesis Statement for an Essay

You’ll write thesis statements a little differently for different kinds of essays.

Informative Essay

Choose Your Topic: What are you informing your readers about?
Outline Key Points: What are the main pieces of information?
Draft Your Statement: Clearly state the purpose and main points.
“The process of photosynthesis is essential for plant life as it converts light energy into chemical energy, produces oxygen, and is the basis for the food chain.”
“The human digestive system is a complex series of organs and glands that process food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste.”
“The Industrial Revolution was a period of major technological advancement and social change that reshaped the economies and societies of Europe and North America.”
“The history of the internet from its early development in the 1960s to its current role in global communication and commerce is a fascinating journey of innovation and transformation.”
“The impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems is profound, affecting wildlife, indigenous communities, and global weather patterns.”

Persuasive Essay

Identify Your Position: What are you trying to convince your reader of?
Gather Supporting Evidence: What evidence backs up your position?
Combine Elements: Make a clear, arguable statement.
“Implementing a four-day workweek can improve productivity and employee well-being, as supported by studies from Iceland and Japan.”
“The death penalty should be abolished as it is inhumane, does not deter crime, and risks executing innocent people.”
“Public transportation should be made free to reduce traffic congestion, decrease pollution, and promote social equity.”
“Recycling should be mandatory to conserve natural resources, reduce landfill waste, and protect the environment.”
“Vaccination should be mandatory to protect public health and prevent the spread of contagious diseases.”

Compare and Contrast Essay

Choose Subjects to Compare: What are the two (or more) subjects?
Determine the Basis of Comparison: What specific aspects are you comparing?
Draft the Thesis: Clearly state the subjects and the comparison.
“While both solar and wind energy are renewable sources, solar energy is more versatile and can be used in a wider variety of environments.”
“Although both capitalism and socialism aim to improve economic welfare, capitalism emphasizes individual freedom while socialism focuses on collective equality.”
“Traditional classroom education and online learning each offer unique benefits, but online learning provides greater flexibility and access to resources.”
“The novels ‘1984’ by George Orwell and ‘Brave New World’ by Aldous Huxley both depict dystopian societies, but ‘1984’ focuses on totalitarianism while ‘Brave New World’ explores the dangers of technological control.”
“While iOS and Android operating systems offer similar functionality, iOS provides a more streamlined user experience, whereas Android offers greater customization options.”

How to Write a Thesis Statement for an Analytical Essay

An analytical essay breaks down an issue or idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.

Choose Your Topic: What will you analyze?
Identify Key Components: What are the main parts of your analysis?
Formulate Your Thesis: Combine the components into a coherent statement.
“Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’ explores themes of madness and revenge through the complex characterization of Hamlet and his interactions with other characters.”
“The economic policies of the New Deal addressed the Great Depression by implementing financial reforms, creating job opportunities, and providing social welfare programs.”
“The symbolism in ‘The Great Gatsby’ by F. Scott Fitzgerald reflects the moral decay and social stratification of the Jazz Age.”
“The narrative structure of ‘Inception’ uses nonlinear storytelling to explore the complexities of dreams and reality.”
“The use of color in Wes Anderson’s films enhances the whimsical and nostalgic tone of his storytelling.”

How to Write a Thesis Statement for an Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence.

It’s similar to the persuasive essay but usually requires more evidence and a more formal tone.

Choose Your Topic: What are you arguing about?
Gather Evidence: What evidence supports your claim?
Formulate Your Thesis: Make a clear, evidence-based statement.
“Climate change is primarily driven by human activities, such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels, which increase greenhouse gas emissions.”
“The benefits of universal healthcare outweigh the costs, as it ensures equal access to medical services, reduces overall healthcare expenses, and improves public health.”
“The death penalty should be abolished because it violates human rights, is not a deterrent to crime, and risks the execution of innocent people.”
“Animal testing for cosmetics should be banned as it is unethical, unnecessary, and alternatives are available.”
“Net neutrality should be maintained to ensure a free and open internet, preventing service providers from prioritizing or blocking content.”

How to Write a Thesis Statement for an Expository Essay

An expository essay explains or describes a topic in a straightforward, logical manner.

It provides a balanced analysis of a subject based on facts without opinions.

Choose Your Topic: What are you explaining or describing?
Outline Key Points: What are the main facts or components?
Formulate Your Thesis: Combine the elements into a clear statement.
“The water cycle consists of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation, which are essential for maintaining the earth’s water balance.”
“The human respiratory system is responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide through a series of organs, including the lungs, trachea, and diaphragm.”
“Photosynthesis in plants involves the absorption of light energy by chlorophyll, which converts carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.”
“The structure of DNA is a double helix composed of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of genetic information.”
“The process of mitosis ensures that cells divide correctly, allowing for growth, repair, and reproduction in living organisms.”

How to Write a Thesis Statement for a Narrative Essay

A narrative essay tells a story or relates an event.

The thesis statement for a narrative essay usually highlights the main point or lesson of the story.

Identify the Main Point: What is the main lesson or theme of your story?
Outline Key Events: What are the key events that support this point?
Formulate Your Thesis: Combine the main point and events into a coherent statement.
“Overcoming my fear of public speaking in high school taught me the value of confidence and perseverance.”
“My summer volunteering at a wildlife rescue center showed me the importance of compassion and teamwork.”
“A family road trip across the country provided me with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for our diverse landscapes.”
“Moving to a new city for college challenged me to adapt to new environments and build independence.”
“A childhood friendship that ended in betrayal taught me the importance of trust and resilience.”

How to Write a Thesis Statement for a Cause and Effect Essay

A cause and effect essay explores the causes of a particular event or situation and its effects.

It provides a clear argument about the cause and effect relationship.

Identify the Event or Situation: What are you analyzing?
Determine the Causes: What are the reasons behind this event or situation?
Identify the Effects: What are the consequences?
Formulate Your Thesis: Combine the causes and effects into a coherent statement.
“The rise in global temperatures is primarily caused by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, and leads to severe weather patterns and rising sea levels.”
“The introduction of invasive species in an ecosystem disrupts the balance and leads to the decline of native species.”
“Economic recession is caused by a combination of factors, including high unemployment rates and declining consumer confidence, and results in reduced business investments and government spending.”
“Prolonged exposure to screen time can cause digital eye strain and sleep disturbances, affecting overall health and productivity.”
“Deforestation contributes to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity, leading to the degradation of ecosystems and reduced agricultural productivity.”

How to Write a Good Thesis Statement

Writing a good thesis statement is all about clarity and specificity.

Here’s a formula to help you:

State the Topic: What are you writing about?
Express Your Opinion: What do you think about the topic?
Provide a Reason: Why do you think this way?
“Remote work is beneficial because it offers flexibility, reduces commuting time, and increases job satisfaction.”
“Regular exercise is essential for maintaining physical and mental health as it boosts energy levels, improves mood, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.”
“Reading fiction enhances empathy by allowing readers to experience different perspectives and emotions.”
“A plant-based diet is advantageous for both personal health and environmental sustainability.”
“Learning a second language enhances cognitive abilities and opens up cultural and professional opportunities.”

Check out this video about how to write a strong thesis statement:

How to Write a Thesis Statement (Formula + Template)

Use this simple formula to craft your thesis statement:

[Main Topic] + [Your Opinion/Position] + [Reason/Key Points]

Template: “__________ (main topic) has __________ (your opinion) because __________ (reason/key points).”

“Electric cars are the future of transportation because they reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower fuel costs, and require less maintenance.”
“Social media platforms should implement stricter privacy controls because user data is vulnerable to breaches, exploitation, and misuse.”
“Higher education should be more affordable to ensure equal access and promote social mobility.”
“Television news often fails to provide balanced coverage, leading to public misinformation.”
“Volunteer work should be encouraged in schools to foster community engagement and personal development.”

Thesis Statement Tips

Writing a strong thesis statement is crucial for a successful essay. Here are some tips to help you craft a killer thesis statement:

Be Specific: Avoid vague language. Make sure your thesis statement clearly defines your argument or main point.
Be Concise: Keep it to one or two sentences. Your thesis statement should be brief and to the point.
Make It Arguable: Ensure that your thesis statement presents a claim or argument that can be disputed.
Place It Appropriately: Typically, your thesis statement should be placed at the end of your introduction paragraph.
Revise and Refine: Don’t be afraid to revise your thesis statement as you write and refine your essay. It should evolve as your ideas develop.

Common Thesis Statement Errors

Avoid these common errors when crafting your thesis statement:

Too Broad: A thesis statement that is too broad makes it difficult to focus your essay. Narrow it down to a specific point.
Too Vague: Avoid vague language that lacks specificity. Be clear about what you’re arguing.
Lacks an Argument: Ensure that your thesis statement makes a clear argument or claim. Avoid statements that are purely factual or descriptive.
Too Complex: A thesis statement should be straightforward and easy to understand. Avoid overly complex sentences.
Off-Topic: Make sure your thesis statement is directly related to the topic of your essay. Stay on track.

How Do You Start a Thesis Statement?

Starting a thesis statement involves using clear and concise language that sets the stage for your argument.

Here are some exact words and phrases to begin with:

“The purpose of this paper is to…”
“This essay will argue that…”
“In this essay, I will demonstrate that…”
“The central idea of this paper is…”
“This research aims to prove that…”
“This study focuses on…”
“This analysis will show that…”
“The main argument presented in this paper is…”
“The goal of this essay is to…”
“Through this research, it will be shown that…”

How Long Should a Thesis Statement Be?

A thesis statement should be clear and concise, typically one to two sentences long.

Aim for 20 to 30 words, ensuring it includes the main topic, your position, and the key points that will be covered in your paper.

This provides a focused and precise summary of your argument, making it easier for readers to understand the main direction of your essay or research paper.

While brevity is essential, it’s also crucial to provide enough detail to convey the scope of your argument.

Avoid overly complex sentences that can confuse readers. Instead, strive for a balance between clarity and comprehensiveness, ensuring your thesis statement is straightforward and informative.

Summary Table of Thesis Statement Writing

Type of Thesis Statement	Example
Standard Method	“Social media influences teenagers’ self-esteem and social interactions.”
Research Paper	“Renewable energy reduces urban carbon emissions, shown by case studies.”
Informative Essay	“Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy for plants.”
Persuasive Essay	“A four-day workweek improves productivity and well-being.”
Compare and Contrast Essay	“Solar energy is more versatile than wind energy.”
Analytical Essay	“The symbolism in ‘The Great Gatsby’ reflects social stratification.”
Argumentative Essay	“Climate change is driven by human activities, requiring urgent action.”
Expository Essay	“The water cycle is essential for maintaining earth’s water balance.”
Narrative Essay	“Overcoming my fear of public speaking taught me confidence.”
Cause and Effect Essay	“Deforestation leads to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.”

Final Thoughts: How to Write a Thesis Statement

Writing a strong thesis statement is the cornerstone of a successful paper.

It guides your writing and helps your readers understand your argument. Remember to be clear, specific, and concise. With practice, you’ll master the art of crafting killer thesis statements.

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How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement: 4 Steps + Examples

What’s Covered:

What is the purpose of a thesis statement, writing a good thesis statement: 4 steps, common pitfalls to avoid, where to get your essay edited for free.

When you set out to write an essay, there has to be some kind of point to it, right? Otherwise, your essay would just be a big jumble of word salad that makes absolutely no sense. An essay needs a central point that ties into everything else. That main point is called a thesis statement, and it’s the core of any essay or research paper.

You may hear about Master degree candidates writing a thesis, and that is an entire paper–not to be confused with the thesis statement, which is typically one sentence that contains your paper’s focus.

Read on to learn more about thesis statements and how to write them. We’ve also included some solid examples for you to reference.

Typically the last sentence of your introductory paragraph, the thesis statement serves as the roadmap for your essay. When your reader gets to the thesis statement, they should have a clear outline of your main point, as well as the information you’ll be presenting in order to either prove or support your point.

The thesis statement should not be confused for a topic sentence , which is the first sentence of every paragraph in your essay. If you need help writing topic sentences, numerous resources are available. Topic sentences should go along with your thesis statement, though.

Since the thesis statement is the most important sentence of your entire essay or paper, it’s imperative that you get this part right. Otherwise, your paper will not have a good flow and will seem disjointed. That’s why it’s vital not to rush through developing one. It’s a methodical process with steps that you need to follow in order to create the best thesis statement possible.

Step 1: Decide what kind of paper you’re writing

When you’re assigned an essay, there are several different types you may get. Argumentative essays are designed to get the reader to agree with you on a topic. Informative or expository essays present information to the reader. Analytical essays offer up a point and then expand on it by analyzing relevant information. Thesis statements can look and sound different based on the type of paper you’re writing. For example:

Argumentative: The United States needs a viable third political party to decrease bipartisanship, increase options, and help reduce corruption in government.
Informative: The Libertarian party has thrown off elections before by gaining enough support in states to get on the ballot and by taking away crucial votes from candidates.
Analytical: An analysis of past presidential elections shows that while third party votes may have been the minority, they did affect the outcome of the elections in 2020, 2016, and beyond.

Step 2: Figure out what point you want to make

Once you know what type of paper you’re writing, you then need to figure out the point you want to make with your thesis statement, and subsequently, your paper. In other words, you need to decide to answer a question about something, such as:

What impact did reality TV have on American society?
How has the musical Hamilton affected perception of American history?
Why do I want to major in [chosen major here]?

If you have an argumentative essay, then you will be writing about an opinion. To make it easier, you may want to choose an opinion that you feel passionate about so that you’re writing about something that interests you. For example, if you have an interest in preserving the environment, you may want to choose a topic that relates to that.

If you’re writing your college essay and they ask why you want to attend that school, you may want to have a main point and back it up with information, something along the lines of:

“Attending Harvard University would benefit me both academically and professionally, as it would give me a strong knowledge base upon which to build my career, develop my network, and hopefully give me an advantage in my chosen field.”

Step 3: Determine what information you’ll use to back up your point

Once you have the point you want to make, you need to figure out how you plan to back it up throughout the rest of your essay. Without this information, it will be hard to either prove or argue the main point of your thesis statement. If you decide to write about the Hamilton example, you may decide to address any falsehoods that the writer put into the musical, such as:

“The musical Hamilton, while accurate in many ways, leaves out key parts of American history, presents a nationalist view of founding fathers, and downplays the racism of the times.”

Once you’ve written your initial working thesis statement, you’ll then need to get information to back that up. For example, the musical completely leaves out Benjamin Franklin, portrays the founding fathers in a nationalist way that is too complimentary, and shows Hamilton as a staunch abolitionist despite the fact that his family likely did own slaves.

Step 4: Revise and refine your thesis statement before you start writing

Read through your thesis statement several times before you begin to compose your full essay. You need to make sure the statement is ironclad, since it is the foundation of the entire paper. Edit it or have a peer review it for you to make sure everything makes sense and that you feel like you can truly write a paper on the topic. Once you’ve done that, you can then begin writing your paper.

When writing a thesis statement, there are some common pitfalls you should avoid so that your paper can be as solid as possible. Make sure you always edit the thesis statement before you do anything else. You also want to ensure that the thesis statement is clear and concise. Don’t make your reader hunt for your point. Finally, put your thesis statement at the end of the first paragraph and have your introduction flow toward that statement. Your reader will expect to find your statement in its traditional spot.

If you’re having trouble getting started, or need some guidance on your essay, there are tools available that can help you. CollegeVine offers a free peer essay review tool where one of your peers can read through your essay and provide you with valuable feedback. Getting essay feedback from a peer can help you wow your instructor or college admissions officer with an impactful essay that effectively illustrates your point.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement . . .

Makes an argumentative assertion about a topic; it states the conclusions that you have reached about your topic.
Makes a promise to the reader about the scope, purpose, and direction of your paper.
Is focused and specific enough to be “proven” within the boundaries of your paper.
Is generally located near the end of the introduction ; sometimes, in a long paper, the thesis will be expressed in several sentences or in an entire paragraph.
Identifies the relationships between the pieces of evidence that you are using to support your argument.

Not all papers require thesis statements! Ask your instructor if you’re in doubt whether you need one.

Identify a topic

Your topic is the subject about which you will write. Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic; or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper.

Consider what your assignment asks you to do

Inform yourself about your topic, focus on one aspect of your topic, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts, generate a topic from an assignment.

Below are some possible topics based on sample assignments.

Sample assignment 1

Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II.

Identified topic

Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis

This topic avoids generalities such as “Spain” and “World War II,” addressing instead on Franco’s role (a specific aspect of “Spain”) and the diplomatic relations between the Allies and Axis (a specific aspect of World War II).

Sample assignment 2

Analyze one of Homer’s epic similes in the Iliad.

The relationship between the portrayal of warfare and the epic simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64.

This topic focuses on a single simile and relates it to a single aspect of the Iliad ( warfare being a major theme in that work).

Developing a Thesis Statement–Additional information

Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic, or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper. You’ll want to read your assignment carefully, looking for key terms that you can use to focus your topic.

Sample assignment: Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II Key terms: analyze, Spain’s neutrality, World War II

After you’ve identified the key words in your topic, the next step is to read about them in several sources, or generate as much information as possible through an analysis of your topic. Obviously, the more material or knowledge you have, the more possibilities will be available for a strong argument. For the sample assignment above, you’ll want to look at books and articles on World War II in general, and Spain’s neutrality in particular.

As you consider your options, you must decide to focus on one aspect of your topic. This means that you cannot include everything you’ve learned about your topic, nor should you go off in several directions. If you end up covering too many different aspects of a topic, your paper will sprawl and be unconvincing in its argument, and it most likely will not fulfull the assignment requirements.

For the sample assignment above, both Spain’s neutrality and World War II are topics far too broad to explore in a paper. You may instead decide to focus on Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis , which narrows down what aspects of Spain’s neutrality and World War II you want to discuss, as well as establishes a specific link between those two aspects.

Before you go too far, however, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts. Try to avoid topics that already have too much written about them (i.e., “eating disorders and body image among adolescent women”) or that simply are not important (i.e. “why I like ice cream”). These topics may lead to a thesis that is either dry fact or a weird claim that cannot be supported. A good thesis falls somewhere between the two extremes. To arrive at this point, ask yourself what is new, interesting, contestable, or controversial about your topic.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times . Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Derive a main point from topic

Once you have a topic, you will have to decide what the main point of your paper will be. This point, the “controlling idea,” becomes the core of your argument (thesis statement) and it is the unifying idea to which you will relate all your sub-theses. You can then turn this “controlling idea” into a purpose statement about what you intend to do in your paper.

Look for patterns in your evidence

Compose a purpose statement.

Consult the examples below for suggestions on how to look for patterns in your evidence and construct a purpose statement.

Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis
Franco turned to the Allies when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from the Axis

Possible conclusion:

Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: Franco’s desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power.

Purpose statement

This paper will analyze Franco’s diplomacy during World War II to see how it contributed to Spain’s neutrality.

The simile compares Simoisius to a tree, which is a peaceful, natural image.
The tree in the simile is chopped down to make wheels for a chariot, which is an object used in warfare.

At first, the simile seems to take the reader away from the world of warfare, but we end up back in that world by the end.

This paper will analyze the way the simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64 moves in and out of the world of warfare.

Derive purpose statement from topic

To find out what your “controlling idea” is, you have to examine and evaluate your evidence . As you consider your evidence, you may notice patterns emerging, data repeated in more than one source, or facts that favor one view more than another. These patterns or data may then lead you to some conclusions about your topic and suggest that you can successfully argue for one idea better than another.

For instance, you might find out that Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis, but when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from them, he turned to the Allies. As you read more about Franco’s decisions, you may conclude that Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: his desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power. Based on this conclusion, you can then write a trial thesis statement to help you decide what material belongs in your paper.

Sometimes you won’t be able to find a focus or identify your “spin” or specific argument immediately. Like some writers, you might begin with a purpose statement just to get yourself going. A purpose statement is one or more sentences that announce your topic and indicate the structure of the paper but do not state the conclusions you have drawn . Thus, you might begin with something like this:

This paper will look at modern language to see if it reflects male dominance or female oppression.
I plan to analyze anger and derision in offensive language to see if they represent a challenge of society’s authority.

At some point, you can turn a purpose statement into a thesis statement. As you think and write about your topic, you can restrict, clarify, and refine your argument, crafting your thesis statement to reflect your thinking.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Compose a draft thesis statement

If you are writing a paper that will have an argumentative thesis and are having trouble getting started, the techniques in the table below may help you develop a temporary or “working” thesis statement.

Begin with a purpose statement that you will later turn into a thesis statement.

Assignment: Discuss the history of the Reform Party and explain its influence on the 1990 presidential and Congressional election.

Purpose Statement: This paper briefly sketches the history of the grassroots, conservative, Perot-led Reform Party and analyzes how it influenced the economic and social ideologies of the two mainstream parties.

Question-to-Assertion

If your assignment asks a specific question(s), turn the question(s) into an assertion and give reasons why it is true or reasons for your opinion.

Assignment : What do Aylmer and Rappaccini have to be proud of? Why aren’t they satisfied with these things? How does pride, as demonstrated in “The Birthmark” and “Rappaccini’s Daughter,” lead to unexpected problems?

Beginning thesis statement: Alymer and Rappaccinni are proud of their great knowledge; however, they are also very greedy and are driven to use their knowledge to alter some aspect of nature as a test of their ability. Evil results when they try to “play God.”

Write a sentence that summarizes the main idea of the essay you plan to write.

Main idea: The reason some toys succeed in the market is that they appeal to the consumers’ sense of the ridiculous and their basic desire to laugh at themselves.

Make a list of the ideas that you want to include; consider the ideas and try to group them.

nature = peaceful
war matériel = violent (competes with 1?)
need for time and space to mourn the dead
war is inescapable (competes with 3?)

Use a formula to arrive at a working thesis statement (you will revise this later).

although most readers of _______ have argued that _______, closer examination shows that _______.
_______ uses _______ and _____ to prove that ________.
phenomenon x is a result of the combination of __________, __________, and _________.

What to keep in mind as you draft an initial thesis statement

Beginning statements obtained through the methods illustrated above can serve as a framework for planning or drafting your paper, but remember they’re not yet the specific, argumentative thesis you want for the final version of your paper. In fact, in its first stages, a thesis statement usually is ill-formed or rough and serves only as a planning tool.

As you write, you may discover evidence that does not fit your temporary or “working” thesis. Or you may reach deeper insights about your topic as you do more research, and you will find that your thesis statement has to be more complicated to match the evidence that you want to use.

You must be willing to reject or omit some evidence in order to keep your paper cohesive and your reader focused. Or you may have to revise your thesis to match the evidence and insights that you want to discuss. Read your draft carefully, noting the conclusions you have drawn and the major ideas which support or prove those conclusions. These will be the elements of your final thesis statement.

Sometimes you will not be able to identify these elements in your early drafts, but as you consider how your argument is developing and how your evidence supports your main idea, ask yourself, “ What is the main point that I want to prove/discuss? ” and “ How will I convince the reader that this is true? ” When you can answer these questions, then you can begin to refine the thesis statement.

Refine and polish the thesis statement

To get to your final thesis, you’ll need to refine your draft thesis so that it’s specific and arguable.

Ask if your draft thesis addresses the assignment
Question each part of your draft thesis
Clarify vague phrases and assertions
Investigate alternatives to your draft thesis

Consult the example below for suggestions on how to refine your draft thesis statement.

Sample Assignment

Choose an activity and define it as a symbol of American culture. Your essay should cause the reader to think critically about the society which produces and enjoys that activity.

Ask The phenomenon of drive-in facilities is an interesting symbol of american culture, and these facilities demonstrate significant characteristics of our society.This statement does not fulfill the assignment because it does not require the reader to think critically about society.

Drive-ins are an interesting symbol of American culture because they represent Americans’ significant creativity and business ingenuity.

Among the types of drive-in facilities familiar during the twentieth century, drive-in movie theaters best represent American creativity, not merely because they were the forerunner of later drive-ins and drive-throughs, but because of their impact on our culture: they changed our relationship to the automobile, changed the way people experienced movies, and changed movie-going into a family activity.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast-food establishments, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize America’s economic ingenuity, they also have affected our personal standards.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast- food restaurants, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize (1) Americans’ business ingenuity, they also have contributed (2) to an increasing homogenization of our culture, (3) a willingness to depersonalize relationships with others, and (4) a tendency to sacrifice quality for convenience.

This statement is now specific and fulfills all parts of the assignment. This version, like any good thesis, is not self-evident; its points, 1-4, will have to be proven with evidence in the body of the paper. The numbers in this statement indicate the order in which the points will be presented. Depending on the length of the paper, there could be one paragraph for each numbered item or there could be blocks of paragraph for even pages for each one.

Complete the final thesis statement

The bottom line.

As you move through the process of crafting a thesis, you’ll need to remember four things:

Context matters! Think about your course materials and lectures. Try to relate your thesis to the ideas your instructor is discussing.
As you go through the process described in this section, always keep your assignment in mind . You will be more successful when your thesis (and paper) responds to the assignment than if it argues a semi-related idea.
Your thesis statement should be precise, focused, and contestable ; it should predict the sub-theses or blocks of information that you will use to prove your argument.
Make sure that you keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Change your thesis as your paper evolves, because you do not want your thesis to promise more than your paper actually delivers.

In the beginning, the thesis statement was a tool to help you sharpen your focus, limit material and establish the paper’s purpose. When your paper is finished, however, the thesis statement becomes a tool for your reader. It tells the reader what you have learned about your topic and what evidence led you to your conclusion. It keeps the reader on track–well able to understand and appreciate your argument.

Writing Process and Structure

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Getting Started with Your Paper

Interpreting Writing Assignments from Your Courses

Generating Ideas for

Creating an Argument

Thesis vs. Purpose Statements

Architecture of Arguments

Working with Sources

Quoting and Paraphrasing Sources

Using Literary Quotations

Citing Sources in Your Paper

Drafting Your Paper

Generating Ideas for Your Paper

Introductions

Paragraphing

Developing Strategic Transitions

Conclusions

Revising Your Paper

Peer Reviews

Reverse Outlines

Revising an Argumentative Paper

Revision Strategies for Longer Projects

Finishing Your Paper

Twelve Common Errors: An Editing Checklist

How to Proofread your Paper

Writing Collaboratively

Collaborative and Group Writing

Home / Guides / Writing Guides / Parts of a Paper / How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement

How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement

A thesis can be found in many places—a debate speech, a lawyer’s closing argument, even an advertisement. But the most common place for a thesis statement (and probably why you’re reading this article) is in an essay.

Whether you’re writing an argumentative paper, an informative essay, or a compare/contrast statement, you need a thesis. Without a thesis, your argument falls flat and your information is unfocused. Since a thesis is so important, it’s probably a good idea to look at some tips on how to put together a strong one.

Guide Overview

What is a “thesis statement” anyway.

2 categories of thesis statements: informative and persuasive
2 styles of thesis statements
Formula for a strong argumentative thesis
The qualities of a solid thesis statement (video)

You may have heard of something called a “thesis.” It’s what seniors commonly refer to as their final paper before graduation. That’s not what we’re talking about here. That type of thesis is a long, well-written paper that takes years to piece together.

Instead, we’re talking about a single sentence that ties together the main idea of any argument . In the context of student essays, it’s a statement that summarizes your topic and declares your position on it. This sentence can tell a reader whether your essay is something they want to read.

2 Categories of Thesis Statements: Informative and Persuasive

Just as there are different types of essays, there are different types of thesis statements. The thesis should match the essay.

For example, with an informative essay, you should compose an informative thesis (rather than argumentative). You want to declare your intentions in this essay and guide the reader to the conclusion that you reach.

To make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, you must procure the ingredients, find a knife, and spread the condiments.

This thesis showed the reader the topic (a type of sandwich) and the direction the essay will take (describing how the sandwich is made).

Most other types of essays, whether compare/contrast, argumentative, or narrative, have thesis statements that take a position and argue it. In other words, unless your purpose is simply to inform, your thesis is considered persuasive. A persuasive thesis usually contains an opinion and the reason why your opinion is true.

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are the best type of sandwich because they are versatile, easy to make, and taste good.

In this persuasive thesis statement, you see that I state my opinion (the best type of sandwich), which means I have chosen a stance. Next, I explain that my opinion is correct with several key reasons. This persuasive type of thesis can be used in any essay that contains the writer’s opinion, including, as I mentioned above, compare/contrast essays, narrative essays, and so on.

2 Styles of Thesis Statements

Just as there are two different types of thesis statements (informative and persuasive), there are two basic styles you can use.

The first style uses a list of two or more points . This style of thesis is perfect for a brief essay that contains only two or three body paragraphs. This basic five-paragraph essay is typical of middle and high school assignments.

C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia series is one of the richest works of the 20th century because it offers an escape from reality, teaches readers to have faith even when they don’t understand, and contains a host of vibrant characters.

In the above persuasive thesis, you can see my opinion about Narnia followed by three clear reasons. This thesis is perfect for setting up a tidy five-paragraph essay.

In college, five paragraph essays become few and far between as essay length gets longer. Can you imagine having only five paragraphs in a six-page paper? For a longer essay, you need a thesis statement that is more versatile. Instead of listing two or three distinct points, a thesis can list one overarching point that all body paragraphs tie into.

Good vs. evil is the main theme of Lewis’s Narnia series, as is made clear through the struggles the main characters face in each book.

In this thesis, I have made a claim about the theme in Narnia followed by my reasoning. The broader scope of this thesis allows me to write about each of the series’ seven novels. I am no longer limited in how many body paragraphs I can logically use.

Formula for a Strong Argumentative Thesis

One thing I find that is helpful for students is having a clear template. While students rarely end up with a thesis that follows this exact wording, the following template creates a good starting point:

_____ is true because of _, _, and _____.

Conversely, the formula for a thesis with only one point might follow this template:

_ is true because of ___.

Students usually end up using different terminology than simply “because,” but having a template is always helpful to get the creative juices flowing.

The Qualities of a Solid Thesis Statement

When composing a thesis, you must consider not only the format, but other qualities like length, position in the essay, and how strong the argument is.

Length: A thesis statement can be short or long, depending on how many points it mentions. Typically, however, it is only one concise sentence. It does contain at least two clauses, usually an independent clause (the opinion) and a dependent clause (the reasons). You probably should aim for a single sentence that is at least two lines, or about 30 to 40 words long.

Position: A thesis statement always belongs at the beginning of an essay. This is because it is a sentence that tells the reader what the writer is going to discuss. Teachers will have different preferences for the precise location of the thesis, but a good rule of thumb is in the introduction paragraph, within the last two or three sentences.

Strength: Finally, for a persuasive thesis to be strong, it needs to be arguable. This means that the statement is not obvious, and it is not something that everyone agrees is true.

Example of weak thesis:

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are easy to make because it just takes three ingredients.

Most people would agree that PB&J is one of the easiest sandwiches in the American lunch repertoire.

Example of a stronger thesis:

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are fun to eat because they always slide around.

This is more arguable because there are plenty of folks who might think a PB&J is messy or slimy rather than fun.

Composing a thesis statement does take a bit more thought than many other parts of an essay. However, because a thesis statement can contain an entire argument in just a few words, it is worth taking the extra time to compose this sentence. It can direct your research and your argument so that your essay is tight, focused, and makes readers think.

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Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements

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Tips for Writing Your Thesis Statement

1. Determine what kind of paper you are writing:

An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
An expository (explanatory) paper explains something to the audience.
An argumentative paper makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, a cause-and-effect statement, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that the claim is true based on the evidence provided.

If you are writing a text that does not fall under these three categories (e.g., a narrative), a thesis statement somewhere in the first paragraph could still be helpful to your reader.

2. Your thesis statement should be specific—it should cover only what you will discuss in your paper and should be supported with specific evidence.

3. The thesis statement usually appears at the end of the first paragraph of a paper.

4. Your topic may change as you write, so you may need to revise your thesis statement to reflect exactly what you have discussed in the paper.

Thesis Statement Examples

Example of an analytical thesis statement:

The paper that follows should:

Explain the analysis of the college admission process
Explain the challenge facing admissions counselors

Example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement:

Explain how students spend their time studying, attending class, and socializing with peers

Example of an argumentative thesis statement:

Present an argument and give evidence to support the claim that students should pursue community projects before entering college

While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.

This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.

Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence)

Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.

This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.

Arguable thesis with analytical claim

While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.

This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.

Arguable thesis with normative claim

Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.

This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.

Questions to ask about your thesis

Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?
Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?
Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?
Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?
Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
picture_as_pdf Thesis

The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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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How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement

The important sentence expresses your central assertion or argument

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Writing Research Papers
Writing Essays
English Grammar
M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

A thesis statement provides the foundation for your entire research paper or essay. This statement is the central assertion that you want to express in your essay. A successful thesis statement is one that is made up of one or two sentences clearly laying out your central idea and expressing an informed, reasoned answer to your research question.

Usually, the thesis statement will appear at the end of the first paragraph of your paper. There are a few different types, and the content of your thesis statement will depend upon the type of paper you’re writing.

Key Takeaways: Writing a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement gives your reader a preview of your paper's content by laying out your central idea and expressing an informed, reasoned answer to your research question.
Thesis statements will vary depending on the type of paper you are writing, such as an expository essay, argument paper, or analytical essay.
Before creating a thesis statement, determine whether you are defending a stance, giving an overview of an event, object, or process, or analyzing your subject

Expository Essay Thesis Statement Examples

An expository essay "exposes" the reader to a new topic; it informs the reader with details, descriptions, or explanations of a subject. If you are writing an expository essay , your thesis statement should explain to the reader what she will learn in your essay. For example:

The United States spends more money on its military budget than all the industrialized nations combined.
Gun-related homicides and suicides are increasing after years of decline.
Hate crimes have increased three years in a row, according to the FBI.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increases the risk of stroke and arterial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).

These statements provide a statement of fact about the topic (not just opinion) but leave the door open for you to elaborate with plenty of details. In an expository essay, you don't need to develop an argument or prove anything; you only need to understand your topic and present it in a logical manner. A good thesis statement in an expository essay always leaves the reader wanting more details.

Types of Thesis Statements

Before creating a thesis statement, it's important to ask a few basic questions, which will help you determine the kind of essay or paper you plan to create:

Are you defending a stance in a controversial essay ?
Are you simply giving an overview or describing an event, object, or process?
Are you conducting an analysis of an event, object, or process?

In every thesis statement , you will give the reader a preview of your paper's content, but the message will differ a little depending on the essay type .

Argument Thesis Statement Examples

If you have been instructed to take a stance on one side of a controversial issue, you will need to write an argument essay . Your thesis statement should express the stance you are taking and may give the reader a preview or a hint of your evidence. The thesis of an argument essay could look something like the following:

Self-driving cars are too dangerous and should be banned from the roadways.
The exploration of outer space is a waste of money; instead, funds should go toward solving issues on Earth, such as poverty, hunger, global warming, and traffic congestion.
The U.S. must crack down on illegal immigration.
Street cameras and street-view maps have led to a total loss of privacy in the United States and elsewhere.

These thesis statements are effective because they offer opinions that can be supported by evidence. If you are writing an argument essay, you can craft your own thesis around the structure of the statements above.

Analytical Essay Thesis Statement Examples

In an analytical essay assignment, you will be expected to break down a topic, process, or object in order to observe and analyze your subject piece by piece. Examples of a thesis statement for an analytical essay include:

The criminal justice reform bill passed by the U.S. Senate in late 2018 (" The First Step Act ") aims to reduce prison sentences that disproportionately fall on nonwhite criminal defendants.
The rise in populism and nationalism in the U.S. and European democracies has coincided with the decline of moderate and centrist parties that have dominated since WWII.
Later-start school days increase student success for a variety of reasons.

Because the role of the thesis statement is to state the central message of your entire paper, it is important to revisit (and maybe rewrite) your thesis statement after the paper is written. In fact, it is quite normal for your message to change as you construct your paper.

The Introductory Paragraph: Start Your Paper Off Right
Revising a Paper
Your Personal Essay Thesis Sentence
How to Develop a Research Paper Timeline
Ethos, Logos, Pathos for Persuasion
How to Narrow the Research Topic for Your Paper
World War II Research Essay Topics
What Is a Senior Thesis?
How to Use Verbs Effectively in Your Research Paper
When to Cite a Source in a Paper
Writing an Annotated Bibliography for a Paper
Finding Trustworthy Sources
How to Write a 10-Page Research Paper
5 Steps to Writing a Position Paper
What Is an Autobiography?
Finding Statistics and Data for Research Papers

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How to Write Topic Sentences | 4 Steps, Examples & Purpose

How to Write Topic Sentences | 4 Steps, Examples & Purpose

Published on July 21, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on June 5, 2023.

Every paragraph in your paper needs a topic sentence . The topic sentence expresses what the paragraph is about. It should include two key things:

The topic of the paragraph
The central point of the paragraph.

After the topic sentence, you expand on the point zwith evidence and examples.

To build a well-structured argument, you can also use your topic sentences to transition smoothly between paragraphs and show the connections between your points.

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Writing strong topic sentences, topic sentences as transitions between paragraphs, topic sentences that introduce more than one paragraph, where does the topic sentence go, frequently asked questions about topic sentences.

Topic sentences aren’t the first or the last thing you write—you’ll develop them throughout the writing process. To make sure every topic sentence and paragraph serves your argument, follow these steps.

Step 1: Write a thesis statement

The first step to developing your topic sentences is to make sure you have a strong thesis statement . The thesis statement sums up the purpose and argument of the whole paper.

Thesis statement example

Food is an increasingly urgent environmental issue, and to reduce humans’ impact on the planet, it is necessary to change global patterns of food production and consumption.

Step 2: Make an essay outline and draft topic sentences

Next, you should make an outline of your essay’s structure , planning what you want to say in each paragraph and what evidence you’ll use.

At this stage, you can draft a topic sentence that sums up the main point you want to make in each paragraph. The topic sentences should be more specific than the thesis statement, but always clearly related to it.

Topic sentence example

Research has consistently shown that the meat industry has a significant environmental impact .

Step 3: Expand with evidence

The rest of the paragraph should flow logically from the topic sentence, expanding on the point with evidence, examples, or argumentation. This helps keep your paragraphs focused: everything you write should relate to the central idea expressed in the topic sentence.

In our example, you might mention specific research studies and statistics that support your point about the overall impact of the meat industry.

Step 4: Refine your topic sentences

Topic sentences usually start out as simple statements. But it’s important to revise them as you write, making sure they match the content of each paragraph.

A good topic sentence is specific enough to give a clear sense of what to expect from the paragraph, but general enough that it doesn’t give everything away. You can think of it like a signpost: it should tell the reader which direction your argument is going in.

To make your writing stronger and ensure the connections between your paragraphs are clear and logical, you can also use topic sentences to create smooth transitions. To improve sentence flow even more, you can also utilize the paraphrase tool .

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As you write each topic sentence, ask yourself: how does this point relate to what you wrote in the preceding paragraph? It’s often helpful to use transition words in your topic sentences to show the connections between your ideas.

Emphasize and expand

If the paragraph goes into more detail or gives another example to make the same point, the topic sentence can use words that imply emphasis or similarity (for example, furthermore , indeed , in fact , also ).

Indeed , cattle farming alone is responsible for a large proportion of greenhouse gas emissions.

Summarize and anticipate

If the paragraph turns to a different aspect of the same subject, the topic sentence can briefly sum up the previous paragraph and anticipate the new information that will appear in this one.

While beef clearly has the most dramatic footprint, other animal products also have serious impacts in terms of emissions, water and land use.

Compare and contrast

If the paragraph makes a comparison or introduces contrasting information, the topic sentence can use words that highlight difference or conflict (for example, in contrast , however , yet , on the other hand ).

However , the environmental costs of dietary choices are not always clear-cut; in some cases, small-scale livestock farming is more sustainable than plant-based food production.

You can also imply contrast or complicate your argument by formulating the topic sentence as a question.

Is veganism the only solution, or are there more sustainable ways of producing meat and dairy?

Sometimes you can use a topic sentence to introduce several paragraphs at once.

All of the examples above address the environmental impact of meat-eating versus veganism. Together, they make up one coherent part of a larger argument, so the first paragraph could use a topic sentence to introduce the whole section.

In countries with high levels of meat consumption, a move towards plant-based diets is the most obvious route to making food more sustainable. Research has consistently shown that the meat industry has significant environmental impacts.

The topic sentence usually goes at the very start of a paragraph, but sometimes it can come later to indicate a change of direction in the paragraph’s argument.

Given this evidence of the meat industry’s impact on the planet, veganism seems like the only environmentally responsible option for consumers. However, the environmental costs of dietary choices are not always clear-cut; in some cases, small-scale livestock farming is more sustainable than plant-based food production.

In this example, the first sentence summarizes the main point that has been made so far. Then the topic sentence indicates that this paragraph will address evidence that complicates or contradicts that point.

In more advanced or creative forms of academic writing , you can play with the placement of topic sentences to build suspense and give your arguments more force. But if in doubt, to keep your research paper clear and focused, the easiest method is to place the topic sentence at the start of the paragraph.

View topic sentences in an example essay

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A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main point of a paragraph . Everything else in the paragraph should relate to the topic sentence.

Topic sentences help keep your writing focused and guide the reader through your argument.

In an essay or paper , each paragraph should focus on a single idea. By stating the main idea in the topic sentence, you clarify what the paragraph is about for both yourself and your reader.

The topic sentence usually comes at the very start of the paragraph .

However, sometimes you might start with a transition sentence to summarize what was discussed in previous paragraphs, followed by the topic sentence that expresses the focus of the current paragraph.

Let’s say you’re writing a five-paragraph essay about the environmental impacts of dietary choices. Here are three examples of topic sentences you could use for each of the three body paragraphs :

Research has shown that the meat industry has severe environmental impacts.
However, many plant-based foods are also produced in environmentally damaging ways.
It’s important to consider not only what type of diet we eat, but where our food comes from and how it is produced.

Each of these sentences expresses one main idea – by listing them in order, we can see the overall structure of the essay at a glance. Each paragraph will expand on the topic sentence with relevant detail, evidence, and arguments.

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Revised on April 16, 2024. A thesis is a type of research paper based on your original research. It is usually submitted as the final step of a master's program or a capstone to a bachelor's degree. Writing a thesis can be a daunting experience. Other than a dissertation, it is one of the longest pieces of writing students typically complete.
Thesis Statements
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.
How to Write a Thesis Statement With Examples
A thesis statement provides the foundation for your entire research paper or essay. This statement is the central assertion that you want to express in your essay. A successful thesis statement is one that is made up of one or two sentences clearly laying out your central idea and expressing an informed, reasoned answer to your research question.
How to Write Topic Sentences
Topic sentences aren't the first or the last thing you write—you'll develop them throughout the writing process. To make sure every topic sentence and paragraph serves your argument, follow these steps. Step 1: Write a thesis statement. The first step to developing your topic sentences is to make sure you have a strong thesis statement ...

25 Thesis Statement Examples

Strong Thesis Statement Examples

1. School Uniforms

2. Nature vs Nurture

3. American Dream

4. Social Media

5. Globalization

6. Urbanization

7. Immigration

8. Cultural Identity

9. Technology

10. Capitalism vs Socialism

11. Cultural Heritage

12. Pseudoscience

13. Free Will

14. Gender Roles

15. Work-Life Ballance

16. Universal Healthcare

17. Minimum Wage

18. Homework

19. Charter Schools

20. Effects of the Internet

21. Affirmative Action

22. Soft Skills

23. Moral Panic

24. Freedom of the Press

25. Mass Media

Checklist: How to use your Thesis Statement

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25 Thesis Statement Examples That Will Make Writing a Breeze

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How to write a thesis statement + examples

What is a thesis statement?

How to Write a Thesis Statement (Full Guide + 60 Examples)

What Is a Thesis Statement?

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How to Write a Thesis Statement (Standard Method)

_____ is true because of _, _, and _____.

_ is true because of ___.