A thesis statement is the main point of an essay. It is usually expressed in a single sentence. An effective thesis statement should accomplish three goals. It should:

It may also forecast how the essay will be organized.

Here is a sample thesis statement:

When you write, think of a thesis statement as a promise to your reader. The rest of your essay delivers on your promise. The example thesis promises the audience, that by reading this essay, they will discover how football and baseball players learn communication, teamwork, and responsibility and how these skills and qualities contribute to the players’ success in life.