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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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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.

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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 .

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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Writing a Paper: Thesis Statements

Basics of thesis statements.

The thesis statement is the brief articulation of your paper's central argument and purpose. You might hear it referred to as simply a "thesis." Every scholarly paper should have a thesis statement, and strong thesis statements are concise, specific, and arguable. Concise means the thesis is short: perhaps one or two sentences for a shorter paper. Specific means the thesis deals with a narrow and focused topic, appropriate to the paper's length. Arguable means that a scholar in your field could disagree (or perhaps already has!).

Strong thesis statements address specific intellectual questions, have clear positions, and use a structure that reflects the overall structure of the paper. Read on to learn more about constructing a strong thesis statement.

Being Specific

This thesis statement has no specific argument:

Needs Improvement: In this essay, I will examine two scholarly articles to find similarities and differences.

This statement is concise, but it is neither specific nor arguable—a reader might wonder, "Which scholarly articles? What is the topic of this paper? What field is the author writing in?" Additionally, the purpose of the paper—to "examine…to find similarities and differences" is not of a scholarly level. Identifying similarities and differences is a good first step, but strong academic argument goes further, analyzing what those similarities and differences might mean or imply.

Better: In this essay, I will argue that Bowler's (2003) autocratic management style, when coupled with Smith's (2007) theory of social cognition, can reduce the expenses associated with employee turnover.

The new revision here is still concise, as well as specific and arguable.  We can see that it is specific because the writer is mentioning (a) concrete ideas and (b) exact authors.  We can also gather the field (business) and the topic (management and employee turnover). The statement is arguable because the student goes beyond merely comparing; he or she draws conclusions from that comparison ("can reduce the expenses associated with employee turnover").

Making a Unique Argument

This thesis draft repeats the language of the writing prompt without making a unique argument:

Needs Improvement: The purpose of this essay is to monitor, assess, and evaluate an educational program for its strengths and weaknesses. Then, I will provide suggestions for improvement.

You can see here that the student has simply stated the paper's assignment, without articulating specifically how he or she will address it. The student can correct this error simply by phrasing the thesis statement as a specific answer to the assignment prompt.

Better: Through a series of student interviews, I found that Kennedy High School's antibullying program was ineffective. In order to address issues of conflict between students, I argue that Kennedy High School should embrace policies outlined by the California Department of Education (2010).

Words like "ineffective" and "argue" show here that the student has clearly thought through the assignment and analyzed the material; he or she is putting forth a specific and debatable position. The concrete information ("student interviews," "antibullying") further prepares the reader for the body of the paper and demonstrates how the student has addressed the assignment prompt without just restating that language.

Creating a Debate

This thesis statement includes only obvious fact or plot summary instead of argument:

Needs Improvement: Leadership is an important quality in nurse educators.

A good strategy to determine if your thesis statement is too broad (and therefore, not arguable) is to ask yourself, "Would a scholar in my field disagree with this point?" Here, we can see easily that no scholar is likely to argue that leadership is an unimportant quality in nurse educators.  The student needs to come up with a more arguable claim, and probably a narrower one; remember that a short paper needs a more focused topic than a dissertation.

Better: Roderick's (2009) theory of participatory leadership  is particularly appropriate to nurse educators working within the emergency medicine field, where students benefit most from collegial and kinesthetic learning.

Here, the student has identified a particular type of leadership ("participatory leadership"), narrowing the topic, and has made an arguable claim (this type of leadership is "appropriate" to a specific type of nurse educator). Conceivably, a scholar in the nursing field might disagree with this approach. The student's paper can now proceed, providing specific pieces of evidence to support the arguable central claim.

Choosing the Right Words

This thesis statement uses large or scholarly-sounding words that have no real substance:

Needs Improvement: Scholars should work to seize metacognitive outcomes by harnessing discipline-based networks to empower collaborative infrastructures.

There are many words in this sentence that may be buzzwords in the student's field or key terms taken from other texts, but together they do not communicate a clear, specific meaning. Sometimes students think scholarly writing means constructing complex sentences using special language, but actually it's usually a stronger choice to write clear, simple sentences. When in doubt, remember that your ideas should be complex, not your sentence structure.

Better: Ecologists should work to educate the U.S. public on conservation methods by making use of local and national green organizations to create a widespread communication plan.

Notice in the revision that the field is now clear (ecology), and the language has been made much more field-specific ("conservation methods," "green organizations"), so the reader is able to see concretely the ideas the student is communicating.

Leaving Room for Discussion

This thesis statement is not capable of development or advancement in the paper:

Needs Improvement: There are always alternatives to illegal drug use.

This sample thesis statement makes a claim, but it is not a claim that will sustain extended discussion. This claim is the type of claim that might be appropriate for the conclusion of a paper, but in the beginning of the paper, the student is left with nowhere to go. What further points can be made? If there are "always alternatives" to the problem the student is identifying, then why bother developing a paper around that claim? Ideally, a thesis statement should be complex enough to explore over the length of the entire paper.

Better: The most effective treatment plan for methamphetamine addiction may be a combination of pharmacological and cognitive therapy, as argued by Baker (2008), Smith (2009), and Xavier (2011).

In the revised thesis, you can see the student make a specific, debatable claim that has the potential to generate several pages' worth of discussion. When drafting a thesis statement, think about the questions your thesis statement will generate: What follow-up inquiries might a reader have? In the first example, there are almost no additional questions implied, but the revised example allows for a good deal more exploration.

Thesis Mad Libs

If you are having trouble getting started, try using the models below to generate a rough model of a thesis statement! These models are intended for drafting purposes only and should not appear in your final work.

• In this essay, I argue ____, using ______ to assert _____.
• While scholars have often argued ______, I argue______, because_______.
• Through an analysis of ______, I argue ______, which is important because_______.

Words to Avoid and to Embrace

When drafting your thesis statement, avoid words like explore, investigate, learn, compile, summarize , and explain to describe the main purpose of your paper. These words imply a paper that summarizes or "reports," rather than synthesizing and analyzing.

Instead of the terms above, try words like argue, critique, question , and interrogate . These more analytical words may help you begin strongly, by articulating a specific, critical, scholarly position.

Read Kayla's blog post for tips on taking a stand in a well-crafted thesis statement.

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Didn't find what you need? Email us at [email protected] .

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25 Thesis Statement Examples

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

Strong Thesis Statement Examples

1. School Uniforms

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

Best For: Argumentative Essay or Debate

Read More: School Uniforms Pros and Cons

2. Nature vs Nurture

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

Best For: Compare and Contrast Essay

Read More: Nature vs Nurture Debate

3. American Dream

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

Best For: Persuasive Essay

Read More: What is the American Dream?

4. Social Media

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

Best For: Expository Essay

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Social Media

5. Globalization

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

Read More: Globalization Pros and Cons

6. Urbanization

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

Read More: Learn about Urbanization

7. Immigration

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

Read More: Immigration Pros and Cons

8. Cultural Identity

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

Best For: Argumentative Essay

Read More: Learn about Cultural Identity

9. Technology

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

Best For: Research Paper

10. Capitalism vs Socialism

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

11. Cultural Heritage

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

12. Pseudoscience

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

Read More: Examples of Pseudoscience

13. Free Will

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

Read More: Do we have Free Will?

14. Gender Roles

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

Read More: What are Traditional Gender Roles?

15. Work-Life Ballance

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

Read More: Work-Life Balance Examples

16. Universal Healthcare

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

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Universal Healthcare

17. Minimum Wage

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

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

18. Homework

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

Best For: Reflective Essay

Read More: Reasons Homework Should be Banned

19. Charter Schools

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

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Charter Schools

20. Effects of the Internet

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

Read More: The Pros and Cons of the Internet

21. Affirmative Action

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

Best For: Essay

Read More: Affirmative Action Pros and Cons

22. Soft Skills

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

Read More: Soft Skills Examples

23. Moral Panic

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

Read More: Moral Panic Examples

24. Freedom of the Press

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

Read More: Freedom of the Press Examples

25. Mass Media

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

Best For: Critical Analysis

Read More: Mass Media Examples

Checklist: How to use your Thesis Statement

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

Try These AI Prompts – Thesis Statement Generator!

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

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

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

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

Chris Drew (PhD)

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

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 5 Top Tips for Succeeding at University
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 50 Durable Goods Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 100 Consumer Goods Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 30 Globalization Pros and Cons

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements

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This resource provides tips for creating a thesis statement and examples of different types of thesis statements.

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

Research Paper: A step-by-step guide: 3. Thesis Statement & Outline

• 1. Getting Started
• 2. Topic Ideas
• 3. Thesis Statement & Outline
• 4. Appropriate Sources
• 5. Search Techniques
• 6. Taking Notes & Documenting Sources
• 7. Evaluating Sources
• 8. Citations & Plagiarism
• 9. Writing Your Research Paper

About Thesis Statements

Qualities of a thesis statement.

Thesis statements:

• state the subject matter and main ideas of a paper.
• appear in the first paragraph and announces what you will discuss in your paper.
• define the scope and focus of your essay, and tells your reader what to expect.  
• are not a simple factual statement.  It is an assertion that states your claims and that you can prove with evidence.
• should be the product of research and your own critical thinking.
• can be very helpful in constructing an outline for your essay; for each point you make, ask yourself whether it is relevant to the thesis.

Steps you can use to create a thesis statement

1. Start out with the main topic and focus of your essay.

youth gangs + prevention and intervention programs

2. Make a claim or argument in one sentence.  It can be helpful to start with a question which you then turn into an argument

Can prevention and intervention programs stop youth gang activities?  How?  ►►►  "Prevention and intervention programs can stop youth gang activities by giving teens something else to do."

3. Revise the sentence by using specific terms.

"Early prevention programs in schools are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement by giving teens good activities that offer a path to success."

4. Further revise the sentence to cover the scope of your essay and make a strong statement.

"Among various prevention and intervention efforts that have been made to deal with the rapid growth of youth gangs, early school-based prevention programs are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement, which they do by giving teens meaningful activities that offer pathways to achievement and success."

5. Keep your thesis statement flexible and revise it as needed. In the process of researching and writing, you may find new information or refine your understanding of the topic.

You can view this short video for more tips on how to write a clear thesis statement.

An outline is the skeleton of your essay, in which you list the arguments and subtopics in a logical order. A good outline is an important element in writing a good paper. An outline helps to target your research areas, keep you within the scope without going off-track, and it can also help to keep your argument in good order when writing the essay.  Once your outline is in good shape, it is much easier to write your paper; you've already done most of the thinking, so you just need to fill in the outline with a paragraph for each point.

To write an outline: The most common way to write an outline is the list format.  List all the major topics and subtopics with the key points that support them. Put similar topics and points together and arrange them in a logical order.    Include an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. 

A list outline should arrange the main points or arguments in a hierarchical structure indicated by Roman numerals for main ideas (I, II, III...), capital letters for subtopics (A, B, C...), Arabic numerals for details (1,2,3...), and lower-case letters for fine details if needed (a,b,c...). This helps keep things organized.  

Here is a shortened example of an outline:

Introduction: background and thesis statement

I. First topic

1. Supporting evidence 2. Supporting evidence

II. Second Topic

III. Third Topic

I. Summarize the main points of your paper II. Restate your thesis in different words III. Make a strong final statement

You can see examples of a few different kinds of outlines and get more help at the Purdue OWL .

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Subtopic in a Research Paper: How to Write Subtopics Well

Topic and Subtopics In Research Paper

A subtopic is a section of your topic that you are discussing in the same research paper. It is a phrase that identifies a section of your research project.  Also, it is part of the subject that you will be exploiting in the essay.

A subtopic is necessary for your essay to make your presentation of your ideas on the topic systematic. Thus, a good subtopic should support the main topic of the research paper and bolster its credibility.

Any essay with a subtopic will follow a standard format typically. Furthermore, the subtopic adds depth to your essay and break the topic into manageable chunks

Essay Subtopics Example

Before you develop your subtopic, you must understand what the entire essay topic is all about.

For you to make your topic more appealing, you have to break it into sections and promote effective delivery.

For example, if your topic is about ‘’ How to Maintain Food Security”, you should research and come up with findings that will support your arguments.

Under the topic, you have to create an outline that will specify the subtopics that will support the key topic.

For instance, they could be as follows:

Main topic: How to maintain food security

Introduction

• 1st Subtopic :  Identify fertile regions
• 2nd Subtopic :  Develop irrigation schemes
• 3rd Subtopic :  Create modern storage systems

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How to Write Subtopics in Research Paper

Subtopics are key pillars of your research paper. You should create a proper outline of these subtopics to make your paper easier to write.

In our guide to writing research papers , we gave steps on how to write paragraphs. These paragraphs carry the subtopics. What’s more, if your paper has good subtopics, it becomes understandable to the audience.

Base your subtopics on the thesis statement which is the critical issue you are trying to create. For that reason, make the appropriate heading as per the research subject. Use the following steps to come up with the subtopics of your research paper:

• Identify the thesis statements of your essay which can be more than a single sentence. More importantly, this statement should summarize that point that you are putting across in your research. Since the thesis is the basis of the paper, allow the subtopics to come from this section.
• Write an outline of your research paper that includes the introduction, body, and conclusion. Follow this simple rule; the introduction should carry the first heading while the conclusion should bear the final heading.
• Divide the body into manageable sections which we will refer to as subtopics. You will base these subtopics on the area of your topic that you want to capture. Besides, use a few words to write your subtopics.
• Lastly, check your outline and include the subtopics that you need to write about. For example, if you select a topic on “Population”, provide the relevant subtopics that will make your delivery easier. Let them support the main idea within your area of discussion.

Importance of Subtopics

1. better understanding.

When you include subtopics in your research paper, you will break the information into chewable levels and promote understanding.

Before one reads through the entire paper, scanning of the subtopics gives the hint of what you are discussing in the whole matter.

2. Improves Engagements

When one is reading your content that has subheadings, it becomes easier to concentrate on the content since the information will be flowing systematically.

A high performing content calls for better engagement where no one should struggle to figure out the direction of your topic.

3. Provides Clarity

Adding subtopics to your work provides clarity to the content. Besides, a subtopic is a great avenue that helps the audience to retain the given information more conveniently.

It is easier to remember certain concepts when broken into sections under meaningful subtitles well. It is a perfect method of connecting with your audience and winning their attention well.

4. Improves Comprehension

Subtopics improve literacy and comprehensions levels. Specifically, the titles assist one in reading speed, vocabulary acquisition, word recognition, and word knowledge.

The subtopics enhance the readability of the essay because the audience will be knowing what might be cooking in the next section in advance. If you did proper research, chances are high that one will end the essay to the end.

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Difference between Research Topic and Subtopic

A topic is a key idea of what the author will be building the main arguments about. The topic is the central idea in your writing. On the other hand, the subtopic is a section of the main topic that supports your argument to complete your discussion.

These two are part of writing but they are the difference between a research paper and an essay , especially when developing the paragraphs. We can illustrate that in the following example:

Supporting evidence

Features of a Good Topic

• Covers a specific subject: The right research topic must be specific. It should not appear too general. Also, you should settle for a topic that is too broad to tempt you to focus on different aspects.

The topic should be clear for the audience to understand the nature of your research.

Thus, it should have a single interpretation to prevent the audience from getting distracted. It should be directional and not ambiguous.

• Well Defined: The topic bears a direct definition without giving a double-barreled impression. Meaning, it should be well-phrased for one to understand with a single meaning.
• Relevant: The topic should be relevant and allow it to focus on timely issues. For example, if you select a topic on abortion, it could appear outdated. Instead, you should settle for other topics on women’s reproductive systems such as menstrual suppression. Develop a topic that has current importance.
• Follows the Assignment: The right topic should follow the guidelines of your assignment. Before you develop your essay topic, read and understand the assignment guidelines.
• Language: The topic language should be simple for everyone to understand. Use technical terms as appropriate. Besides, maintain the ethics of your writing to avoid using unethical sentences or terms. Avoid using a bias either willingly or unwillingly in your topic.
• Titling: The research problem should follow titling rules. For example, you can use a title case or a sentence case. You should understand the titling rules before writing the topic down.

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FAQs on Subtopics

How to write subtopics in a research paper.

Begin by understanding the thesis testament. Create an outline that includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. Divide the topic into smaller sections which we refer to as the subtopics. Use a few words to serve as titles for the subtopics. Finally, use the titles of the subtopics in your outline.

What is a subtopic in an essay?

A subtopic is a section of a topic that complements the central idea of a topic. We use subtopics to expand the arguments in your topic for the readers to follow and understand what you are saying.

A subtopic is necessary as a convenient break to allow the writer to bring the point home. The right subtopic enhances the engagements of your essay to make it more exciting.

Topics and subtopics examples

When you are writing your essay or a research paper, you should create a topic and utilize subtopics to enhance delivery. Topics can vary based on the type of instruction that you will receive. However, be sure to make your topics relevant so that you do not deviate from what your professor wants.

Several topics exist for you to choose from depending on your field. The most common ones are:

Main topic: Effects of River Pollution

• 1st subtopic: Sources of River Pollution
• 2nd subtopic: Loss of aquatic life
• 3rd subtopic: Contamination of freshwater
• 4th subtopic: Communal diseases
• 5th subtopic: solution to river pollution.

When not handling complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

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Thesis Statement Topics

Selecting the ideal topic for your thesis statement is like laying the cornerstone for a building; it’s foundational to the strength and clarity of your argument. The choice of topic not only determines the direction of your research but also influences the impact of your paper. With a sea of topics available, the challenge often lies in narrowing down the options. This guide will elucidate the nuances of picking thesis statement topics, offering a roadmap to ensure your selection resonates with purpose and precision.

What is a good thesis statement topic?

A good thesis statement topic is one that satisfies several key criteria:

• Relevance : It should be pertinent to your field of study and align with current trends or gaps in the research. A topic that is timely and relevant can garner more interest.
• Researchable : There should be enough information available for you to research and base your arguments on. Conversely, it shouldn’t be so over-researched that there’s nothing new to add.
• Specificity : A good topic isn’t too broad; it’s specific enough to be manageable within the scope of your paper or project. For instance, “Climate Change” is too broad, but “The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems in Florida” narrows the focus.
• Arguable : A good thesis topic invites debate. It isn’t a statement of fact but presents a claim or perspective that can be supported or challenged with evidence.
• Originality : While it’s challenging to find a completely untouched topic, your approach, perspective, or specific focus should bring some level of originality to the subject.
• Personal Interest : While often overlooked, it’s crucial to choose a topic you’re passionate about. Your enthusiasm will reflect in your writing and make the research process more engaging.
• Scope : The topic should be feasible in terms of the length of your paper or project. A Ph.D. dissertation will have a broader scope than a short essay, for instance.

For example, a topic like “The Influence of Social Media Algorithms on Political Polarization” is specific, researchable, arguable, and highly relevant in today’s digital age

What is an Example of Good Thesis Statement Topic?

Certainly! Let’s delve into a topic and derive a thesis statement from it.

Topic : The Influence of Social Media on Teen Mental Health

Thesis Statement : “The pervasive use of social media among teenagers has a significant correlation with increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation, as the platforms amplify peer comparison, perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards, and increase the potential for cyberbullying.”

This Strong thesis statement satisfies the criteria for being good:

• It is relevant given the widespread concern about teen mental health in the age of social media.
• It is specific , focusing on the connection between social media use and particular mental health issues among teens.
• It is arguable , as some might believe that social media has positive effects or that its impact is negligible.
• It has a researchable basis , as many studies have explored this connection in recent years.
• It invites the writer to present evidence on each of the aspects mentioned: peer comparison, beauty standards, and cyberbullying.

100 Thesis Statement Topics and Examples

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• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health : Pervasive use of social media correlates with heightened feelings of depression, anxiety, and loneliness.
• The Benefits of Renewable Energy : Renewable energy sources offer a sustainable solution to the global energy crisis.
• The Historical Analysis of the Feminist Movement : The evolution of feminism has drastically challenged societal norms, advocating for equality.
• Modern Architecture and Sustainability : Contemporary architectural practices are increasingly integrating sustainability, emphasizing eco-friendly designs.
• The Economic Impact of E-commerce : E-commerce platforms have revolutionized consumer behavior and reshaped global economic dynamics.
• The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Modern Healthcare : AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare, from diagnostics to patient care.
• The Cultural Influence of Renaissance Art : Renaissance art provided a foundation that has profoundly influenced Western aesthetics and cultural expressions.
• The Consequences of Globalization on Local Cultures : While globalization has spurred economic growth, it also threatens the integrity of local cultures.
• The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Relationships : Early traumatic experiences can deeply affect adult relational patterns and attachments.
• The Future of Space Exploration : Advancements in technology and space research may soon make interstellar travel a reality for humanity.
• The Influences of Pop Culture on Youth : Pop culture significantly influences youth behaviors, beliefs, and aspirations.
• Effects of Urbanization on Biodiversity : Rapid urban expansion can lead to habitat fragmentation and a decline in biodiversity.
• The Historical Importance of Shakespeare’s Works : Shakespeare’s literary contributions have had a profound impact on English literature and drama.
• Impacts of Vegan Diets on Health : Adopting a vegan diet can offer health benefits and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• The Ethical Implications of Cloning : Cloning, while scientifically possible, raises myriad ethical and moral concerns.
• The Psychological Effects of Prolonged Screen Time : Excessive exposure to screens can lead to mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.
• The Sustainability of Fast Fashion : The fast fashion industry faces scrutiny for its environmental impact and unsustainable practices.
• The Role of Play in Early Childhood Development : Play is essential for cognitive, physical, and emotional development in early childhood.
• Effects of Deforestation on Indigenous Communities : Deforestation not only harms the environment but also displaces and affects indigenous communities.
• The Future of Cryptocurrencies : Cryptocurrencies may redefine traditional economic systems, offering more decentralized and transparent monetary operations.
• The Role of Microfinance in Empowering Women : Microfinance initiatives have the potential to uplift women economically and socially in developing nations.
• Impact of Fast Food on Public Health : Excessive consumption of fast food contributes significantly to global health issues like obesity and heart diseases.
• Evolution of Digital Media and its Effects on Traditional Journalism : The rise of digital media challenges traditional journalistic practices while offering more democratized information dissemination.
• The Historical Roots of Racism in Modern Society : Present-day racial biases and prejudices can be traced back to centuries-old practices and beliefs.
• The Ethics of Animal Testing in Medical Research : Animal testing, while advancing medical science, poses significant ethical dilemmas.
• Blockchain Beyond Cryptocurrency : The potential of blockchain extends beyond cryptocurrencies, offering solutions in sectors like healthcare, finance, and supply chain management.
• Impact of Augmented Reality on Modern Education : Augmented reality can revolutionize education, offering interactive and immersive learning experiences.
• The Societal Implications of Universal Basic Income : Implementing a Universal Basic Income could address inequality but poses significant economic challenges.
• Gentrification and its Effects on Urban Communities : Gentrification, while revitalizing urban areas, often displaces long-standing communities and erodes local cultures.
• Impact of Climate Change on Global Migration : Escalating climate change effects are becoming a key driver in global migration patterns.
• Historical Analysis of The Olympic Games : The Olympics, beyond a sporting event, reflects global political, cultural, and societal shifts.
• The Role of Genetics in Personality Development : Genetics, combined with environmental factors, play a crucial role in shaping individual personalities.
• The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Warfare : The integration of AI in military strategies raises concerns over accountability and ethics in warfare.
• Impact of Nuclear Energy on Global Power Dynamics : Nuclear energy, as a power source and weapon, significantly influences global geopolitics.
• The Transformation of Retail in the Age of E-commerce : The digital revolution is reshaping the traditional retail landscape, emphasizing the importance of online presence.
• Cultural Interpretations of Dreams Across Civilizations : Dreams have been interpreted in various ways across cultures, reflecting societal beliefs and values.
• The Influence of Greek Philosophy on Western Thought : Greek philosophers laid the foundational ideas and principles that have influenced Western academic and societal thought.
• The Role of Gut Health in Overall Wellbeing : Emerging research suggests that gut health is pivotal to overall physical and mental wellbeing.
• Psychoanalytic Perspectives on Modern Art : Modern art often mirrors psychoanalytic concepts, offering a window into the subconscious mind of society.
• Effects of Parenting Styles on Child Development : Different parenting approaches can have varied outcomes on the emotional and psychological development of children
• Urban Planning and its Impact on Community Well-being : Efficient urban planning is essential to ensure sustainable, healthy, and integrated communities.
• The Influence of Classical Music on Cognitive Development : Exposure to classical music during early years can enhance cognitive abilities in children.
• Economic Impacts of Tourism in Developing Countries : Tourism, while being a significant revenue source, can sometimes strain resources and alter local cultures in developing nations.
• The Psychological Underpinnings of Procrastination : Procrastination, more than just laziness, often stems from deep-seated fears and anxieties.
• Migration Patterns and their Effects on Global Economies : Contemporary migration patterns, driven by various factors, significantly influence both source and destination economies.
• The Significance of Quantum Mechanics in Modern Technology : Quantum mechanics forms the backbone of many advanced technological innovations today.
• The Cultural and Historical Roots of Meditation Practices : Meditation, now global, has diverse historical and cultural origins, offering varied practices and philosophies.
• Ethical Implications of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) : While GMOs promise improved yield and resilience, they raise concerns about biodiversity, health, and corporate control over food sources.
• The Renaissance and its Impact on Modern Thought : The Renaissance era, marked by renewed interest in arts and sciences, has deeply influenced modern intellectual and cultural paradigms.
• Post-colonial Literature and its Exploration of Identity and Nationhood : Post-colonial literature delves deep into themes of identity, nationhood, and the lingering impacts of colonization.
• The Role of Coral Reefs in Marine Ecosystems : Coral reefs, while covering a minor fraction of the ocean floor, play a pivotal role in marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.
• Impact of Biotechnology on Modern Medicine : Advanced biotechnological approaches have heralded a new era in diagnostics, treatment, and patient care.
• The Philosophical Foundations of Democracy : Democracy, as a governance model, is rooted in ancient philosophical ideals about freedom, equality, and representation.
• Technological Innovations and their Influence on Social Interactions : The digital age, while connecting the world, also alters the nature and depth of personal interactions.
• The Evolution and Influence of Jazz in Global Music : Originating from African-American communities, jazz has evolved and permeated various music genres worldwide.
• Historical Perspectives on Pandemics and their Societal Impact : Past pandemics, like the Black Death or Spanish Flu, have reshaped societies, economies, and cultures.
• Neuroscientific Insights into Meditation and Mindfulness : Modern neuroscience reveals how meditation and mindfulness practices alter brain structures and enhance mental well-being.
• The Ecological and Economic Significance of Wetlands : Wetlands, beyond their biodiversity, play a critical role in flood control, water purification, and carbon sequestration.
• Effects of Pesticides on Bee Populations and Agriculture : Declining bee populations due to pesticides threaten not only biodiversity but also global food supply chains.
• The Exploration of Space: Philosophical Implications and Possibilities : Venturing into space raises profound questions about human existence, destiny, and our place in the cosmos
• The Dynamics of Workplace Culture in the Digital Age : Remote work and digital communication tools are reshaping traditional workplace norms and interactions.
• Historical Analysis of Economic Crises and their Social Impacts : Economic downturns, from the Great Depression to recent recessions, profoundly impact societal structures and individual lives.
• The Role of Forests in Climate Change Mitigation : Forests act as crucial carbon sinks, playing a vital role in global efforts to combat climate change.
• Cognitive and Social Benefits of Bilingualism : Mastering two or more languages can enhance cognitive flexibility and foster cross-cultural understanding.
• Modern Robotics and Ethical Considerations : As robots assume more roles in society, ethical concerns about autonomy, job displacement, and human-machine relationships intensify.
• The Socio-cultural Influence of Latin American Literature : Latin American literature offers rich insights into regional histories, cultures, and identities, influencing global literary thought.
• Evolution of Feminist Movements in the 21st Century : Contemporary feminist movements, like #MeToo, reflect evolving dialogues on gender equality and women’s rights in modern society.
• The Importance of Mangroves in Coastal Ecosystems : Mangroves provide critical protection against coastal erosion, serve as breeding grounds for marine life, and aid in carbon sequestration.
• The Interplay of Politics and Media in Modern Democracies : In the digital era, media plays an increasingly influential role in shaping political discourse and public opinion.
• Exploring the Mysteries of Dark Matter and Dark Energy : These enigmatic components of the universe challenge our understanding of physics and the nature of reality.
• Evolving Norms of Masculinity in Contemporary Culture : Modern discourses challenge traditional masculine norms, promoting more inclusive and diverse expressions of manhood.
• Artificial Intelligence in Financial Markets : AI’s predictive capabilities are revolutionizing trading strategies, risk management, and financial forecasting.
• Cultural Perspectives on Death and Afterlife : Societies worldwide offer diverse and profound interpretations of death, reflecting their spiritual, philosophical, and cultural mores.
• The Influence of African Music on Global Music Genres : From jazz to pop, African musical elements have enriched global music genres, fostering cross-cultural exchanges.
• The Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelics : Emerging research suggests psychedelics like psilocybin could offer breakthrough treatments for mental health disorders.
• The Changing Landscape of Book Publishing in the Digital Era : E-books, self-publishing, and digital platforms are redefining the traditional publishing industry’s contours.
• The Role of Microorganisms in Human Health : Beyond pathogens, beneficial microorganisms play a pivotal role in digestion, immunity, and overall health.
• Sustainability Practices in Modern Agriculture : Amid climate change and population growth, sustainable farming practices are crucial for food security and ecological balance.
• The Impact of Colonialism on Contemporary Art in Africa : Colonial legacies influence themes, motifs, and narratives in modern African art.
• Economic Implications of Aging Populations : As populations age, economies face challenges in pension systems, healthcare costs, and workforce dynamics
• The Transformation of Cinema in the Age of Streaming Platforms : With platforms like Netflix and Disney+, the traditional movie-going experience and film distribution are undergoing dramatic shifts.
• The Role of Play in Child Cognitive Development : Engaging in unstructured play is pivotal for fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, and emotional intelligence in children.
• Cybersecurity in the Era of Internet of Things (IoT) : As devices become interconnected, there’s an escalating need for robust cybersecurity measures to prevent data breaches.
• The Culinary Journey: How Food Connects Cultures : Global cuisines offer a sensory exploration into the histories, traditions, and narratives of diverse cultures.
• Ecotourism’s Impact on Local Communities : While ecotourism promotes sustainable travel, its effects on local cultures and economies can be multifaceted.
• Modern Architecture’s Dialogue with Nature : Contemporary architectural practices emphasize sustainability, eco-friendliness, and harmony with the natural environment.
• The Psychological Dynamics of Social Media Addiction : The design of social platforms taps into psychological needs for validation and connection, leading to potential overuse and addiction.
• Green Technologies in Urban Transportation : Embracing green tech, like electric buses and bikes, can transform urban mobility and reduce environmental footprints.
• The Intersections of Religion and Politics in Modern Democracies : In many nations, religious beliefs and practices continue to shape political ideologies and policy-making.
• Role of Quantum Computing in Future Technologies : Quantum computing promises to revolutionize sectors like cryptography, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence by offering unparalleled computational power.
• Impact of Climate Change on Ancient Civilizations : Archaeological and paleoclimatic evidence suggests that past climate shifts influenced the rise and fall of ancient empires.
• Modern Art Movements and their Social Commentaries : Art movements like surrealism or abstract expressionism offer insights into societal dynamics, aspirations, and anxieties of their times.
• The Ethics and Implications of Human Cloning : While human cloning remains a controversial topic, it poses profound ethical, social, and scientific challenges and possibilities.
• Migration and its Influence on Global Cuisine : Migrant communities introduce and blend culinary traditions, leading to the evolution of global foodscapes.
• The Power Dynamics in Linguistic Colonization : Language imposition during colonial eras affected indigenous cultures, influencing identity, communication, and power structures.
• Sustainable Fashion: Necessity in the Age of Consumerism : The fashion industry, a significant pollutant, is witnessing a shift towards sustainable practices in production and consumption.
• E-sports: The Rise of Competitive Video Gaming : E-sports, once a niche hobby, has evolved into a global phenomenon with significant economic and cultural impacts.
• The Role of Mythology in Shaping Cultural Identities : Myths, legends, and folklore play a crucial role in forming collective identities, moral codes, and worldviews.
• Advances in Renewable Energy and their Global Impacts : As the world shifts away from fossil fuels, renewable energy technologies promise a cleaner, sustainable future.
• Digital Privacy Rights in the Age of Surveillance Capitalism : With tech giants monetizing user data, there’s a pressing need to address digital privacy rights and data protection.

Thesis Statement Topics and Examples for College

College years are a crucial period where students delve into complex topics, exploring various issues and debates that shape academic and real-world discussions. Here, the focus is on subjects relevant to undergraduate learners, offering a blend of breadth and depth.

• Influence of College Extracurriculars on Career Paths : Participation in college clubs and societies often aligns with and influences career trajectories, enhancing professional networks and skills.
• Mental Health Concerns in College Students : Rising academic pressures and transitional life phases exacerbate mental health issues among college students.
• Impact of Study Abroad Programs on Cultural Understanding : Immersing in foreign academic environments fosters cultural empathy and broadens worldviews.
• The Role of College Advisors in Academic Success : Effective guidance from academic advisors can significantly impact students’ career decisions and academic achievements.
• Online Learning vs. Traditional Classroom Experiences in College : As e-learning gains momentum, its efficacy compared to conventional classroom instruction becomes a pivotal discussion point.
• College Athletes and Compensation Debates : The controversy surrounding financial compensation for college athletes given the revenue they generate is multi-faceted.
• The Relevance of College Degrees in Modern Job Markets : As skill-based hiring gains traction, the actual value of a college degree in certain industries comes under scrutiny.
• College Campuses and Sustainability Initiatives : Modern colleges play a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices, becoming epicenters for green initiatives.
• Influence of Social Media on College Social Dynamics : Platforms like Instagram or Snapchat shape social hierarchies, interpersonal relationships, and perceptions of self among college students.
• Debt Crisis and College Tuitions : The ballooning student loan debt in relation to rising college tuitions is a major socioeconomic concern.

3 Point Thesis Statement Topics & Examples

Three-point thesis statements provide a structured approach, presenting three primary arguments or points in support of the central claim.

• Digitalization, Environment, and Job Markets : Digital transformation leads to environmental conservation through paperless operations but simultaneously poses threats to traditional job roles.
• Diet, Exercise, and Mental Well-being : A balanced diet combined with regular exercise not only ensures physical health but also promotes mental well-being.
• Literature, History, and Cultural Identity : Literary works capture historical contexts, reflecting and shaping the cultural identity of societies across eras.
• Solar Energy: Efficiency, Economy, and Environment : Solar energy presents benefits in operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental preservation.
• Youth, Technology, and Social Change : The youth, empowered by technological innovations, are the vanguards of social transformations and revolutions.

Controversial Topics & Examples of Thesis Statements

Tackling controversial subjects requires a deft hand, analyzing various facets of contentious issues.

• Legalization of Recreational Marijuana : While proponents highlight medical benefits and potential tax revenues, critics point to potential health risks and societal concerns.
• Euthanasia and Right to Die : The debate around euthanasia encompasses moral, legal, and individual autonomy aspects.
• Genetic Engineering in Humans : The promise of eliminating genetic diseases is tempered by ethical concerns over “designer babies” and unforeseen genetic consequences.
• State Surveillance vs. Individual Privacy : While state surveillance is justified as a security measure, it often clashes with individual rights to privacy.
• Animal Testing in Medical Research : The pursuit of medical advancements often comes at the cost of animal welfare, sparking ethical debates.

Debatable Topics & Examples of Thesis Statements

Engaging in debates helps in sharpening analytical skills, and these topics invite discussions from multiple viewpoints.

• Universal Basic Income as an Economic Equalizer : While UBI promises to address income inequality, questions arise regarding its feasibility and potential economic repercussions.
• Space Exploration vs. Earth Conservation : As space exploration advances, debates ensue about prioritizing cosmic endeavors over pressing terrestrial environmental concerns.
• Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Human Employment : The rise of AI brings about concerns over job displacements and the future of human work.
• Vegetarianism and its Environmental Impact : Shifting towards plant-based diets promises environmental benefits, but its global feasibility and nutritional implications remain topics of debate.
• Single-gender Schools and Academic Performance : While some argue single-gender schools foster better academic environments, critics see them as perpetuating gender stereotypes.

Education Topics & Thesis Statement Examples

Education thesis statement is the cornerstone of societal progress, and these topics shed light on its various dimensions.

• Early Childhood Education and Cognitive Development : Formative early education significantly influences cognitive growth, setting the stage for future academic success.
• Standardized Testing and its Implications on Learning : Over-reliance on standardized tests can sometimes overshadow holistic learning, emphasizing rote memorization.
• Digital Tools in Modern Classrooms : The integration of digital platforms and tools in classrooms offers interactive learning experiences but also presents challenges in maintaining engagement.
• Inclusion of Life Skills in School Curriculums : Beyond traditional subjects, life skills education prepares students for real-world challenges, fostering emotional intelligence and practical acumen.
• Teacher Training and Student Outcomes : Effective teacher training programs directly influence classroom dynamics and, consequently, student performance outcomes.

How do you write a topic thesis statement?

Writing a topic thesis statement involves condensing the primary idea or argument of your paper into a concise, clear statement. Here’s how to craft one:

• Identify Your Topic : Begin by clearly defining what you’ll be discussing or analyzing.
• Clarify Your Opinion or Position : What do you want to say about the topic? Your thesis should not merely state a fact, but it should announce your position on the topic.
• Make it Specific : A broad or vague thesis statement will be hard to defend. Ensure your statement is detailed enough to give your readers a clear sense of your argument.
• Ensure It’s Arguable : A thesis statement should be something people could reasonably have differing opinions on. If no one could possibly disagree with your thesis, you might not be presenting a strong enough argument.
• Keep It Concise : Your thesis should be one or two sentences long. If it’s too long or complicated, you might lose your readers.
• Revise As Necessary : As you write and research, your perspective might change. Revisit and revise your thesis statement as necessary.

How do you choose a Topic for Thesis Statement?

Choosing the right topic for your thesis statement is pivotal for crafting a compelling argument. Follow these steps:

• Interest : Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. It makes the research and writing process more engaging.
• Relevance : Ensure the topic is relevant to your assignment or the subject you’re studying.
• Research Scope : Ensure there’s enough information available to support your thesis. Preliminary research can help gauge this.
• Originality : Opt for a fresh perspective or a less explored aspect of a common topic.
• Specificity : Rather than a broad topic, narrow it down to a specific issue or question. This helps in creating a focused argument.
• Seek Feedback : Discuss potential topics with peers, instructors, or advisors to get their input.

What is a thesis statement with 3 topics?

A thesis statement with three topics, often called a three-point thesis statement, introduces three primary arguments or points in support of the central claim. It provides a structured approach, offering a roadmap for the reader about what to expect in the body of the paper.

Example : “A healthy lifestyle is characterized by balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.”

In this example, the three topics that will be explored further in the paper are balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep.  You may also be interested to browse through our other  health thesis statement .

Tips for Selecting a Topic for Thesis Statement:

• Stay Curious : Your enthusiasm for a topic will shine through in your writing. Choose something that you’re curious about.
• Consider the Length : If it’s a longer paper, ensure the topic has enough depth to explore. Conversely, for a shorter paper, avoid topics that are too expansive.
• Check Credibility : Ensure that the sources available for your topic are credible and varied.
• Avoid Overly Polarizing Topics : While controversial topics can be intriguing, they can also be challenging. Ensure you’re comfortable navigating both sides of the argument.
• Test Your Topic : Try writing a preliminary thesis statement or an introduction. If you struggle, the topic might be too broad or too narrow.
• Stay Updated : If you’re choosing a current event or a recent development in your field, stay updated with the latest news or research related to it.
• Brainstorm : Write down all potential topics and narrow them down based on interest, relevance, and feasibility.

Selecting the right topic and crafting a compelling speech thesis statement is foundational for any well-argued paper or essay. Give it the time and thought it deserves.

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Thesis Statements: Examples

• Where Do Theses Come From?

Bullying in elementary schools is getting worse, because children model what they see at home and there are more cases of physical and emotional child abuse, and this causes various emotional problems in children.

In order to be truly effective, anti-bullying policies should focus on the home life of the bully, because of the strong connection between parental actions and attitudes and the way a student treats his or her peers.

Explanation

The first example tries to cover too many topics: bullying is getting worse, bullying is related to the student's home life, and bullying causes various emotional problems in children.  The second example focuses only on the connection between a student's home life and tendency towards bullying.

Abortion is a terrible practice that only deranged, baby-killing monsters would advocate under the guise of being pro-choice.

Despite the appeal of freedom of choice, the legalization of abortion has been detrimental to the well-being of women in America.

The first example states a strong opinion, but does not offer any facts to back it up.  The explosive language is likely to alienate even readers who may have been sympathetic to the writer's position.  The second example promises to offer a rational, if still opinioned, look at the issue.

Texting your sister who is in the next room to ask her to bring you your backpack means that you should get a life.

The use of technology to replace face to face communication increases the feeling of isolation among American youth.

The first statement is too specific to be a thesis statement.  If reworded for a more academic structure, the specific anecdote could be used to prove a broader point, but, as it is, the author would have difficulty writing an entire paper about this one incident.  The second thesis statement is broad enough that an entire paper could be written about it.

The government should legalize the use of marijuana.

The governement should legalize the use of marijuana in order to benefit from sales taxes of the drug and in order to make it more easily available to people who need it for medical reasons.

The first statement is debatable, but gives no sign that the author has any reasons for making such a statement.  The second thesis statement offers logical reasons, which the reader can assume the author will expound upon in the rest of the paper.

People who are healthy and have healthy organs should be allowed to find other people in need of organs that they don't need, like a kidney, and sell them to the other people because that could save lives if a financial incentive was offered, instead of just relying on people's charity.

The purchase and sale of organs should be legalized in order to better facilitate the saving of lives.

More words don't always make a better thesis.  The second thesis statement is much clearer.  The example of the first thesis statement could be included earlier in the paragraph to help illustrate what is being argued, especially since the subject matter is rather unusual.

Beauty contests are sexist and detrimental to society, and they should be banned everywhere. 

Beauty contests, while they may increase confidence in those who perform in them, can be sexist and harmful because they encourage objectification of women and put an overemphasis on physical appearance. 

The first example is too simple and opinionated. The writer gives his or her point of view, but does not back it up with reasons or facts -- it is just stated. It also offers an overly simplified and extreme solution to the problem. The second example, while still offering a concrete opinion on the subject, gives reasons for this view. The writer is informing the reader of how he or she will go about defending his or her stance. 

Smoking causes lung damage and other health problems. 

Smoking should be made illegal in the United States because of the health problems that it causes. 

The first example is not a point that can be argued against; it is widely known and accepted that smoking is unhealthy. Why write a paper explaining something that everybody already knows and agrees about? The second example can be argued, however: making smoking illegal is one possible solution to the problem, but it still needs to have evidence and argument to back it up because not everybody believes that this is a good solution. 

Exams are not the best way to determine academic successs. 

Exams determine students' talent at test-taking and recall rather than their actual understanding of the material; therefore, instead of exams alone, instructors should employ several different ways of measuring student success, including papers and projects.  

The first example is too broad; it is more of a general topic rather than a thesis. The second example is much more specific. It narrows the thesis down from the problem itself to the solution to the problem. 

Prompt: Describe a character from the movie who shows compassion.

Jack shows compassion.

Jack shows compassion through his kind words, his selfless volunteering, and his forgiveness of Alicia's quick temper.

The first example simply uses the prompt as the thesis statement.  The second example offers support for the statement, preparing the reader for an essay about how Jack's kind words, selfless volunteering and forgiveness show his compassion.

One thing I am going to talk about today is one thing that happened to me one time when I was on this one trip at a place that I was staying at for a certain amount of time. 

Standing on a mountain-top in Israel was an experience that redefined my faith and helped me decide to become an archeologist.

The first example is very vague, providing the reader with almost no information.  The second example gives the reader a clear idea of what the essay is going to be about.  The first example also announces what the author plans to do.  It is much better to launch right into the essay, thereby demosntrating to the reader the purpose of the essay.

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• How to write an expository essay

How to Write an Expository Essay | Structure, Tips & Examples

Published on July 14, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

“Expository” means “intended to explain or describe something.” An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a particular topic, process, or set of ideas. It doesn’t set out to prove a point, just to give a balanced view of its subject matter.

Expository essays are usually short assignments intended to test your composition skills or your understanding of a subject. They tend to involve less research and original arguments than argumentative essays .

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Table of contents

When should you write an expository essay, how to approach an expository essay, introducing your essay, writing the body paragraphs, concluding your essay, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about expository essays.

In school and university, you might have to write expository essays as in-class exercises, exam questions, or coursework assignments.

Sometimes it won’t be directly stated that the assignment is an expository essay, but there are certain keywords that imply expository writing is required. Consider the prompts below.

The word “explain” here is the clue: An essay responding to this prompt should provide an explanation of this historical process—not necessarily an original argument about it.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to define a particular term or concept. This means more than just copying down the dictionary definition; you’ll be expected to explore different ideas surrounding the term, as this prompt emphasizes.

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An expository essay should take an objective approach: It isn’t about your personal opinions or experiences. Instead, your goal is to provide an informative and balanced explanation of your topic. Avoid using the first or second person (“I” or “you”).

The structure of your expository essay will vary according to the scope of your assignment and the demands of your topic. It’s worthwhile to plan out your structure before you start, using an essay outline .

A common structure for a short expository essay consists of five paragraphs: An introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Like all essays, an expository essay begins with an introduction . This serves to hook the reader’s interest, briefly introduce your topic, and provide a thesis statement summarizing what you’re going to say about it.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

The body of your essay is where you cover your topic in depth. It often consists of three paragraphs, but may be more for a longer essay. This is where you present the details of the process, idea or topic you’re explaining.

It’s important to make sure each paragraph covers its own clearly defined topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Different topics (all related to the overall subject matter of the essay) should be presented in a logical order, with clear transitions between paragraphs.

Hover over different parts of the example paragraph below to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

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The conclusion of an expository essay serves to summarize the topic under discussion. It should not present any new information or evidence, but should instead focus on reinforcing the points made so far. Essentially, your conclusion is there to round off the essay in an engaging way.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a conclusion works.

The invention of the printing press was important not only in terms of its immediate cultural and economic effects, but also in terms of its major impact on politics and religion across Europe. In the century following the invention of the printing press, the relatively stationary intellectual atmosphere of the Middle Ages gave way to the social upheavals of the Reformation and the Renaissance. A single technological innovation had contributed to the total reshaping of the continent.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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An expository essay is a broad form that varies in length according to the scope of the assignment.

Expository essays are often assigned as a writing exercise or as part of an exam, in which case a five-paragraph essay of around 800 words may be appropriate.

You’ll usually be given guidelines regarding length; if you’re not sure, ask.

An expository essay is a common assignment in high-school and university composition classes. It might be assigned as coursework, in class, or as part of an exam.

Sometimes you might not be told explicitly to write an expository essay. Look out for prompts containing keywords like “explain” and “define.” An expository essay is usually the right response to these prompts.

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

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