How do I write a thesis statement?

A thesis statement (also sometimes called a purpose statement) tells the reader what claim you will be making or point you will be showing in your writing. In other words, it gives the main argument of your work. 

Usually a thesis statement appears within the first paragraph of a paper. It should be arguable, concise, and specific. Thesis statements can take many forms, so see the Writing Center's tips on constructing a thesis.

Additional Resources:

Would you like your current assignment or paper to be reviewed by the Writing Center?  If so please visit the Writing Center's Paper Review Website and make an appointment with us! 

• Check out the webinar archive and view the "Synthesis and Thesis Development" webinar recording. 
• Check out the webinar archive and view the "Building and Organizing Academic Arguments" webinar recording. 
• Listen to the Writing Center's podcast (select Episode 2: Thesis statements) for more thesis statement tips.

Further Questions?

Do you have other general writing questions? Ask OASIS.

Other questions about your doctoral capstone or the Form & Style review? E-mail the Dissertation Editors at [email protected].

Want to peruse other writing resources? Go to the Writing Center’s homepage.