As you explore your subject and identify questions to investigate, you will begin to see possible ways to focus your material. At this point, try to settle on a tentative central idea. The more complex your topic, the more your focus will change as your drafts evolve.
For many types of writing, you will be able to assert your central idea in a sentence or two. Such a statement, which ordinarily appears in the opening paragraph of your finished essay, is called a thesis statement.
The thesis is often one or more of the following:
The tentative, or working, thesis will help you shape your thoughts. Don’t worry about the exact wording because your main point may change as you refine your ideas.
Here, for example, is one student’s early effort at posing a question and formulating a thesis statement for a paper for a film course.
QUESTION
In Rebel without a Cause, how does the filmmaker show that the main character becomes alienated from his family and friends?
TENTATIVE THESIS
In Rebel without a Cause, Jim Stark, the main character, is often seen literally on the edge of physical danger, suggesting that he is becoming more and more agitated by family and society.
The working thesis will need to be revised as the student thinks through and revises his paper, but it provides a useful place to start writing.
Here another student identifies a problem to focus an argument paper.
PROBLEM
Americans who earn average incomes cannot run effective national political campaigns.
TENTATIVE THESIS
Congress should pass legislation that would make it possible for Americans who are not wealthy to be viable candidates in national political campaigns.
The student has roughed out language for how to solve the problem—enacting federal legislation. As she learns more about her topic, she will be able to refine her thesis and suggest a more specific solution, such as federal restriction of campaign spending.
Testing a working thesis
Characteristics of effective thesis statements
Effective thesis statements
Exercise: Thesis statements 1
Exercise: Thesis statements 2
Related topics:
Developing the thesis
Stating your position in your introduction