Thesis Statements

What is a Thesis Statement?

  • Your main argument in the essay.

  • It tells the reader what you’re arguing and why.

  • It must be clear and supported by evidence.

When Do You Write It?

  • After you have:

    • Chosen your topic

    • Found evidence

    • Decided your opinion or position

Types of Positions

  • Affirmative = You agree with the prompt or source

  • Negative = You disagree with the prompt or source

Formula to Use

Topic + Argument + Reasoning

  • Topic: What the essay is about (e.g., superheroes, nationalism, fate)

  • Argument: Your position (affirmative or negative)

  • Reasoning: Why you believe this — based on evidence

Example:

Topic: Superheroes

Argument: They play a good role in society

Reasoning: Because they help more than they harm, even with flaws

What Makes a Good Thesis?

  • Covers all your evidence and criteria

  • Shows a general conclusion, not just one idea

  • Is arguable (someone could disagree with it)

Weak Thesis Examples (and Why They’re Bad)

  1. Superheroes don’t play a positive role because they rarely put others first.
    → Only uses one reason

  2. Marvel’s Black Panther shows superheroes are good.
    → Focuses on only one source

  3. A real superhero helps others because it must be done.
    → Restates the prompt without a clear opinion

  4. Superheroes have powers to fight bad guys.
    → Just a fact, not an argument

How to Check If Your Thesis Is Strong

  • Can you back it up with evidence?

  • Can someone argue the opposite?

  • Does it reflect your full opinion based on all your research?

KEY REMINDER

Your criteria and thesis are the foundation of your essay.

Everything in your body paragraphs should support your thesis.