In the Beginning...
Writing an Engaging Introductory Paragraph
Creating Your Hook
Providing Background Information
Writing Your Thesis/Roadmap
This sentence is the most important statement in your paper. Your thesis should address the question provided with the assignment, provide your opinion, and give reasons.
Remember, you should be assertive and one-sided in your thesis statement. Saying "I think" or "I believe" makes you sound unsure and lack confidence in your writing. You also want to avoid giving both sides of the argument in your essays ("fair and balanced" is for the media). If the reader doesn't think you're sold on the argument, why should they be?
When you give your reasons at the end of the thesis statement, you'll want to follow that order in your paper. For example, if I said, "The First Amendment is the most important amendment because it protects an individual's freedom of religion, speech, and assembly." Sorry petitioners and members of the press - I only needed three reasons. My first body paragraph should discuss why the freedom of religion is so important, my second body paragraph should address the freedom of speech, and my final paragraph should explain why the freedom of assembly is so important.
Still want some more help writing your thesis statement? Check out the video below: