Making a Tree Map
A Visual Guide for Your Paper
First, you start with a thesis statement
A THESIS STATEMENT is a sentence that:
- Makes a promise about the scope, purpose, and direction of the paper.
- Captures the whole argument in one sentence usually near the end of the introduction.
- Is focused and specific enough to be proven within the paper. It provides a framework for the paper.
For the Writer:
• serves as a planning tool.
• helps the writer determine the paper's
focus.
• becomes a reference point for all topic
sentences in support of the argument.
• anticipates questions about the topic.
For the reader:
• serves as a "map" to follow through the paper.
• keeps the reader focused on the argument
• engages the reader in the argument
• offers enough detail for the reader to grasp the argument
Thesis Statements: Four Steps to a Great Essay | 60second Recap®
A well-written thesis goes beyond the obvious and discovers what it is you have to say.
Drafting a Thesis
- In one word, what is the topic of your paper?
- What are you going to prove about this topic? What is your argument?
- How can your argument be proven? Convince your reader that your argument is true and right! Use strong and solid reasons (3 main ideas).
A.) ____________________________________
B.) ____________________________________
C.) ____________________________________
- At this point, you know your topic, your argument, and your evidence for your argument. Put your argument with your evidence, and this will serve as your working thesis.