An easy to understand Online Writing Guide for beginning writers. Here you will find a list of various writing models, general tips and hints to help guide you to writing success.
The big idea
The thesis is the key to any persuasive speech or essay. It's the point you want to prove. It's the focus of the whole thing. Everything you do in the piece should grow from your thesis--that's how important it is.
Before you begin
Make sure you know what point you want to make in your essay or speech. If you find yourself drawn in several directions, choose one and develop it.
How to do it
The thesis is supposed to be ONE SENTENCE LONG. In my class, I want your thesis statements to give your point of view AND give some hint of what your subtopics are going to be. In other words, the thesis should be a roadmap to the rest of the essay. Someone who is paying attention to your thesis should be able to tell what the other paragraphs in the essay are going to be about.
Some Sample Thesis Statements
There are several reasons that Americans should be comfortable with the idea of a woman President: women are as smart and capable as men, many have now had the necessary administrative experience to do the job, and, in the long run, they may be less likely to resort to violence than men are.
One thing to remember is that, even if two different candies, such as Reeses Peanut Butter Cups and Butterfinger, have similar components and general descriptions, they can be very different where it really counts: in your mouth.
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Copyright 1996-2004 by Michael Klingensmith