Key FeaturesKey FeaturesThesis Statement

states the main idea of the essay in a complete sentence, not in a question.

states an opinion or attitude on a topic. It doesn’t just state the topic, itself.

is usually at the end of an introduction.

often lists subtopics.

Key FeaturesKey FeaturesMain Idea in a Complete Sentence

The sport of cross-country running.

Why do I want to be a teacher?

The sport of cross-country running has allowed me to get in better shape and meet some interesting

people.

Being a teacher is a great profession, because it allows me to work with students and be creative.

Thesis Statement

Thesis Statement

An Opinion or AttitudeAn Opinion or AttitudeAnother Example

Cancun is a popular vacation spot in Mexico.

This would not be considered a good thesis statement, because it is only expressing a fact. It doesn’t reflect the writer’s opinion or attitude on Cancun. This thesis statement doesn’t give the writer very much to explain or prove in his/her essay.

Cancun is one of the best vacation spots in Mexico because of its comfortable climate and proximity to some well-known archeological sites.

This thesis statement is much better because it expresses how the writer feels about Cancun. This thesis statement requires the writer to explain how and why going to Cancun is a good choice for visitors.

Imagine a quiet place. Shhhhhhh. Quieter than that. Warm, tranquil, the only noise the delicate flapping of butterfly wings. The gentle warm sun warms your closed eyelids. There are times I want to find such a quiet place to just sit, for hours (at least three), while looking at nothing. Sitting for hours looking at nothing is hugely beneficial because I can relax, while learning new skills such as juggling and lion taming.

Thesis StatementThesis StatementOne Example

The thesis statement contains the main idea that controls the content of the essay.

Subpoints in the thesis or nearby help the reader know how the essay will be organized

“Shannon, you’re nearly halfway up!” Uncle Neal called. “This is tougher than I thought.” Shannon said these words as she labored to save a seal by carrying it up a tall cliff strapped to her back. While visiting her Uncle Neal in Seattle, she did this and a number of other dangerous rescues involving wild animals, such as bears and coyotes. For these many rescues, Shannon deserves an award for risk-taking.

Another Example

The thesis statement contains the main idea that controls the content of the essay.

Subpoints in the thesis or nearby help the reader know how the essay will be organized

Thesis StatementThesis Statement