A thesis statement is the single sentence that captures the central argument of your essay or dissertation. It tells the reader exactly what you will argue and sets the direction for everything that follows.
What a Thesis Statement Does
A thesis statement makes a specific, arguable claim, not a statement of fact or a description of your topic. It usually appears at the end of your introduction and acts as a promise to the reader about what your argument will demonstrate.
Weak vs Strong Thesis Statements
‘This essay is about social media’ is weak; it states a topic, not an argument. ‘The regulation of social-media algorithms is the most effective lever for reducing online misinformation in the UK’ is strong; it is specific, arguable and directional. If someone could not reasonably disagree, it is not yet a thesis.
How to Write One
Start with your research question, then answer it in a single, confident sentence. Make the claim narrow enough to defend within your word count and broad enough to sustain a full argument.
Position and Consistency
Place your thesis at the end of the introduction, and keep your whole piece consistent with it. If your argument drifts, either bring it back on track or update the thesis to match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should the thesis statement go?
Usually at the end of your introduction, so it frames the argument that follows.
Should a dissertation have a thesis statement?
Yes; it is often expressed as your central argument or the answer to your research question.
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