technology in thesis statement

Technology Thesis Statement

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The dynamic world of technology continually shapes our daily lives and future. Writing a compelling thesis statement about technology means delving deep into the nuances of innovation, foreseeing its implications, and presenting a clear, concise perspective. Crafting the perfect statement requires a keen understanding of your topic, its relevance, and the message you wish to convey. Below, we will explore examples of technology-related thesis statements, provide tips on how to hone them, and guide you in encapsulating the essence of your research.

What is the Technology Thesis Statement? – Definition

A technology thesis statement is a concise summary or main point of a research paper, essay, or dissertation related to a technology-focused topic. It establishes the central theme, position, or argument that the author intends to communicate, providing readers with a clear overview of what the subsequent content will address. This research paper thesis statement is essential in guiding the flow and coherence of the piece, ensuring that the content remains relevant to the proposed topic.

What is an example of a Technology thesis statement?

“With the rapid evolution of wearable technology, there is a compelling need to address the associated privacy concerns, arguing that without comprehensive regulations, users’ personal data could be at significant risk.”  You should also take a look at our  middle school thesis statement .

100 Technology Statement Examples

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Technology concise thesis statements encapsulate the essence of tech-focused research papers or essays, presenting a concise argument or perspective on a specific technological development, trend, or challenge. These statements guide the reader’s understanding, giving clarity and direction to the narrative.

• Artificial Intelligence : “The integration of AI in healthcare can revolutionize patient diagnosis, but ethical constraints need addressing.”
• Virtual Reality : “Virtual reality’s potential in education extends beyond immersion, offering tailored learning experiences.”
• Blockchain : “Blockchain technology, while disruptive, promises to make financial transactions more transparent and secure.”
• Cybersecurity : “The rise of IoT devices demands stronger cybersecurity measures to prevent unprecedented breaches.”
• Biotechnology : “CRISPR technology might hold the key to genetic disorders, yet its ethical implications are vast.”
• E-Commerce : “The shift to e-commerce has fundamentally changed consumer behavior, prioritizing convenience over brand loyalty.”
• 5G Technology : “The deployment of 5G will enhance IoT capabilities, but infrastructure challenges persist.”
• Green Technology : “Solar panel advancements are crucial for sustainable energy but require policy support for widespread adoption.”
• Robotics : “Robotic automation in manufacturing accelerates production but poses employment challenges.”
• Wearable Tech : “Wearables are transforming health monitoring, but data privacy remains a significant concern.”
• Quantum Computing : “While quantum computers promise to solve complex problems in seconds, they also pose threats to current encryption methods.”
• Space Exploration : “The commercialization of space travel opens new frontiers for tourism but also raises environmental and safety concerns.”
• Augmented Reality : “Augmented reality in retail can enhance customer experience, yet it challenges traditional shopping norms.”
• Drones : “The proliferation of drone technology in delivery services improves efficiency but brings forth airspace regulation issues.”
• Nano-Technology : “Nanotechnology in medicine offers targeted drug delivery but has unexplored long-term effects on human health.”
• Self-Driving Cars : “Autonomous vehicles could drastically reduce traffic accidents, but their integration requires comprehensive legal frameworks.”
• Smart Cities : “Smart cities optimize urban living conditions; however, they highlight disparities in digital access.”
• Edge Computing : “Edge computing decentralizes data processing, enhancing IoT performance, but it raises concerns about localized data breaches.”
• 3D Printing : “3D printing revolutionizes manufacturing and healthcare but challenges intellectual property rights.”
• Digital Assistants : “Voice-activated digital assistants streamline daily tasks but provoke debates on user surveillance and privacy.”
• Telemedicine : “Telemedicine democratizes healthcare access, yet questions arise about its efficacy compared to in-person consultations.”
• Big Data : “Big data analytics can transform industries, but the potential misuse of information is a growing concern.”
• Cloud Computing : “Cloud adoption offers businesses scalability and flexibility, though it introduces unique cybersecurity challenges.”
• Digital Currency : “Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin could redefine financial systems, but their volatility and regulatory gray areas persist.”
• Gaming Technology : “Esports and gaming technology foster global communities, but they also spotlight issues of digital addiction.”
• Neural Networks : “Neural networks enhance machine learning capabilities but make algorithm decision-making processes more opaque.”
• Mixed Reality : “Mixed reality blends the best of AR and VR, offering innovative solutions in training but requires significant hardware investments.”
• Social Media Algorithms : “Algorithms on social platforms shape user behavior, leading to questions about influence and manipulation.”
• Broadband Technology : “Universal broadband access can bridge educational gaps, but infrastructural and cost barriers remain.”
• Digital Learning Platforms : “Online education platforms democratize learning but challenge traditional educational paradigms.”
• Agricultural Tech : “Smart farming through tech can optimize yields, but its cost can exclude small-scale farmers.”
• Mobile Banking : “Mobile banking boosts financial inclusion in developing nations but raises issues of digital literacy.”
• Chatbots : “Chatbots in customer service optimize responsiveness but can depersonalize the user experience.”
• Facial Recognition : “Facial recognition tech can enhance security measures but has sparked debates on privacy and misuse.”
• Deepfakes : “Deepfake technology, while impressive, poses significant threats to misinformation and trust in media.”
• Health Tech : “Wearable health devices offer real-time monitoring, yet there’s growing concern over data security and interpretation accuracy.”
• Marine Technology : “Underwater drones present opportunities for oceanic exploration, but their use raises environmental concerns.”
• Sustainable Tech : “Technological solutions to waste management are crucial for urban sustainability, but require societal behavior changes for maximum effectiveness.”
• Language Translation : “Real-time translation tools are bridging communication gaps, but can’t replace the nuance of human translators.”
• Online Privacy : “VPN services enhance online privacy, yet they introduce challenges in legal jurisdictions and data accountability.”
• Internet of Things (IoT) : “While IoT connects everyday devices, it also increases potential points of cyber vulnerabilities.”
• Haptic Technology : “Haptic tech holds potential in virtual training environments but demands rigorous testing for consistent real-world replication.”
• Renewable Energy Tech : “Wind energy is a clean alternative, yet its land use and noise pollution issues remain unresolved.”
• Genomic Editing : “While genomic editing can prevent hereditary diseases, its potential misuse in ‘designer babies’ raises ethical debates.”
• E-Learning : “Digital classrooms can provide education continuity during crises, but highlight inequalities in tech accessibility.”
• Wireless Charging : “The evolution of wireless charging technology promotes convenience but necessitates universal standardization.”
• Retail Tech : “Smart mirrors in retail enhance consumer experience but can potentially infringe on privacy rights if misused.”
• Data Storage : “Quantum data storage could revolutionize information keeping, yet the transition from classical methods is fraught with challenges.”
• Livestreaming Tech : “The growth of livestreaming platforms boosts creator economies, but presents issues of content moderation.”
• Digital Twins : “Digital twins in manufacturing optimize production processes, but require significant data management and interpretation efforts.”
• Animal Tech : “RFID tags in wildlife conservation assist in species monitoring but raise concerns about animal welfare and interference.”
• Thermal Imaging : “Thermal imaging in public spaces can enhance security, but its widespread use prompts privacy debates.”
• Financial Tech (FinTech) : “Digital-only banks provide unparalleled convenience, yet face skepticism over their ability to handle financial crises.”
• Audio Tech : “Spatial a in headphones creates immersive experiences, but its effects on auditory health are under-researched.”
• Nano-Biotechnology : “Nano-biotech in targeted drug delivery holds promise, but its long-term interactions with biological systems remain unknown.”
• Location-Based Services : “Geolocation tools in apps enhance user experience, but inadvertently contribute to data surveillance concerns.”
• Human-Machine Interface : “Brain-computer interfaces might redefine communication for the differently-abled, but they also present neuroethical dilemmas.”
• Gig Economy Platforms : “Tech-driven gig economies offer flexible employment, but often at the cost of job security and benefits.”
• Environmental Monitoring : “Satellite technology for environmental monitoring is crucial for climate change mitigation, but depends on international collaboration and data-sharing.”
• Entertainment Tech : “Augmented reality in entertainment redefines audience engagement, but challenges traditional content creation paradigms.”
• Food Technology : “Lab-grown meats could significantly reduce the environmental impact of livestock, but their societal acceptance and taste equivalency remain under scrutiny.”
• Telecommunication : “The transition to satellite-based internet services can enhance global connectivity but introduces space debris management challenges.”
• Digital Art and Media : “Digital art platforms democratize artistic expression, though they raise concerns over copyright and originality.”
• Fitness Tech : “Smart gyms utilize AI to personalize workout regimens, but their reliance on user data raises privacy issues.”
• Medical Imaging : “AI-driven medical imaging can enhance diagnostic precision, yet its integration demands rigorous validation against traditional methods.”
• Urban Mobility : “Electric scooters in urban centers promote green mobility, but their indiscriminate use poses pedestrian safety risks.”
• Adaptive Tech : “Adaptive technologies for the differently-abled democratize access, but their high costs can limit widespread adoption.”
• Cryptographic Tech : “Post-quantum cryptography aims to secure data against future quantum attacks, but its practical implementation remains challenging.”
• Travel and Navigation : “AR-based navigation tools can revolutionize travel experiences, but they demand robust infrastructure to prevent inaccuracies.”
• Event Technology : “Virtual event platforms offer global outreach, but they challenge the conventional understanding of networking and engagement.”
• Consumer Electronics : “Flexible electronics pave the way for innovative gadgets, yet their durability and recyclability are concerns.”
• Space Mining : “Space mining could answer Earth’s resource scarcity, but its feasibility and impact on space ecosystems are contentious.”
• Fashion Tech : “Smart fabrics offer dynamic design possibilities, but their production processes raise environmental questions.”
• Elderly Tech : “Tech solutions for the elderly improve quality of life, but require intuitive designs to ensure ease of use.”
• Cyber Physical Systems : “Integrating physical processes with computer-based algorithms promises efficiency, but challenges real-time adaptability.”
• Rehabilitation Tech : “VR in physical rehabilitation offers immersive therapy, but its long-term efficacy compared to traditional methods is under exploration.”
• Collaborative Platforms : “Cloud-based collaborative tools redefine workplace productivity, but their over-reliance can risk centralizing data control.”
• Quantum Sensing : “Quantum sensors could redefine detection limits in various fields, but their scalability in real-world applications remains a hurdle.”
• Learning Management Systems (LMS) : “LMS platforms facilitate organized e-learning, but their design must prioritize user-friendliness for diverse user groups.”
• Aerospace Tech : “Electric aircraft represent the future of eco-friendly travel, but the transition requires breakthroughs in battery technology.”
• Hydroponic Farming : “Tech-driven hydroponic systems can increase agricultural yield in urban areas, but the initial setup costs and energy consumption are deterrents.”
• Waste Management Tech : “Automated waste sorting can significantly enhance recycling rates, but its success demands public awareness and participation.”
• Digital Publishing : “E-books and digital publications increase accessibility, but they also challenge traditional publishing economics.”
• Therapeutic Tech : “Biofeedback apps promise personalized stress management, but their recommendations need backing by robust clinical research.”
• Molecular Electronics : “Molecular-scale electronics could miniaturize devices further, but their stability and manufacturing pose significant challenges.”
• Industrial IoT : “Integrating IoT in industries optimizes production and maintenance, but its seamless functioning demands strong cybersecurity protocols.”
• Photonics : “Photonics in data transmission offers higher speeds, but its integration into current infrastructure is complex.”
• Marine Energy : “Harnessing oceanic energy can be a renewable power solution, but its impact on marine ecosystems needs careful evaluation.”
• Prosthetics Tech : “Advanced prosthetics with AI integration promise life-changing mobility, but the cost of development and acquisition challenges their accessibility.”
• Resilient Infrastructure : “Smart materials in construction adapt to environmental changes, but the long-term sustainability and economic feasibility remain subjects of research.”
• Optogenetics : “Optogenetics holds transformative potential for neurological disorders, but its ethical application in humans is still debated.”
• Entertainment Streaming : “Streaming platforms are reshaping entertainment consumption, but they also spotlight issues of digital rights and royalties.”
• Water Purification Tech : “Nanotechnology in water purification can address global water crises, but its ecological impact requires close monitoring.”
• Transportation Tech : “Hyperloop transportation promises rapid transits, but the infrastructural and safety challenges are monumental.”
• Pedagogical Tools : “AI-driven pedagogical tools individualize learning, but there’s a risk of over-reliance and diminished human interaction.”
• Remote Work Tech : “Advanced collaborative tools enable effective remote work, but they also blur the lines between professional and personal boundaries.”
• Sensor Technology : “Smart sensors in agriculture optimize irrigation and reduce water wastage, but their implementation costs can be prohibitive for small-scale farmers.”
• Food Preservation : “Innovative food preservation technologies can reduce global food wastage, but their energy consumption and efficiency need optimization.”
• Gaming Interfaces : “Brain-computer interfaces in gaming promise immersive experiences, but their long-term effects on neurological health are underexplored.”
• Material Science : “Meta-materials can revolutionize optics and telecommunications, but their large-scale production and integration pose significant challenges.”

Technology Thesis Statement Examples for Argumentative Essay

As the digital age progresses, there’s a growing consensus about the pros and cons of technology’s integration into our daily lives. Argumentative essays thesis statement on technology often delve into the ethical and societal implications, pushing the boundaries of the debates even further.

• Social Media’s Impact : “While some argue that social media strengthens interpersonal relationships, it can also be held responsible for eroding face-to-face interactions and deepening feelings of social isolation.”
• Digital Dependency : “The increasing reliance on smartphones has jeopardized our cognitive abilities, leading to diminished memory recall and reduced attention spans.”
• Online Privacy : “In the digital age, online privacy has become an illusion, with corporations and governments frequently infringing upon personal data rights.”
• Virtual Reality : “Despite the immersive experiences offered by virtual reality, its overuse can blur the distinction between the real and virtual worlds, leading to psychological implications.”
• Technological Progress vs. Job Security : “Technological advancements, while driving efficiency and progress, also threaten traditional jobs, potentially leading to economic disparities.”
• Digital Currency : “Cryptocurrencies, despite their volatile nature, represent a significant shift in the financial landscape and have the potential to decentralize traditional banking systems.”
• E-books vs. Traditional Books : “While e-books offer convenience and accessibility, they can never replace the tactile experience and emotional connection readers have with physical books.”
• The Internet and Democracy : “The internet, although hailed as a tool for democratizing information, also presents threats like misinformation campaigns that can undermine democratic processes.”
• Tech Giants and Monopoly : “The unchecked rise of tech giants poses a threat to competition, potentially stifling innovation and enabling monopolistic behaviors.”
• Green Technology : “Investing in green technologies is not merely an environmental imperative but also an economic opportunity that promises both sustainable growth and job creation.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Technology in Education

Education has undergone tremendous transformation thanks to technology. The intersection of technology and education raises questions about equity, effectiveness, and the shaping of future minds.

• Digital Literacy : “Incorporating digital literacy in education is crucial, not just for technological proficiency but for navigating the modern world responsibly and critically.”
• Online Learning : “Online education, while offering flexibility and accessibility, can lack the personal touch and hands-on experiences that traditional classrooms provide.”
• EdTech in Early Childhood : “Introducing technology in early childhood education can foster creativity and adaptability, but it must not overshadow foundational learning experiences.”
• Gamification of Learning : “Gamifying education can increase student engagement, but there’s a risk of prioritizing rewards over actual knowledge acquisition.”
• Tech in Special Education : “Technology has the potential to revolutionize special education, offering tailored learning experiences to cater to individual needs.”
• Digital Distractions : “The integration of technology in classrooms, while beneficial, also brings the challenge of combating digital distractions and ensuring focused learning.”
• Open Source Learning : “Open-source educational resources can democratize education, but there’s a need to ensure the quality and credibility of these materials.”
• AR and VR in Education : “Augmented and virtual reality tools in education can offer immersive learning experiences, but their efficacy compared to traditional methods remains to be thoroughly evaluated.”
• Adaptive Learning Systems : “Adaptive learning technologies promise personalized education, but reliance on them must be balanced with human mentorship.”
• Digital Divide : “The push for technology in education must also address the digital divide, ensuring that students from all socioeconomic backgrounds have equal access.”

Thesis Statement Examples on Technology in Artificial Intelligence

The realm of artificial intelligence is a marvel of modern science and engineering, but it brings forth numerous concerns and speculations. Essays on AI and technology focus on the potential of machines surpassing human intelligence and the societal repercussions of such a possibility.

• Ethical AI : “As AI systems grow in complexity, there’s an urgent necessity to establish ethical guidelines that prioritize human values and safety.”
• AI in Warfare : “The integration of AI in military operations, while enhancing precision, raises alarming concerns about the lack of human judgment in life-and-death decisions.”
• Bias in Machine Learning : “Unchecked, machine learning models can perpetuate and amplify societal biases, necessitating rigorous audit processes before deployment.”
• AI and Employment : “The rise of automation and AI in industries risks a significant displacement of the workforce, highlighting the need for societal adaptation and job retraining.”
• Emotion AI : “Artificial Intelligence designed to recognize and respond to human emotions could revolutionize industries, but also brings concerns about privacy and emotional manipulation.”
• Singularity : “The potential for an AI singularity, where AI surpasses human intelligence, necessitates preemptive safeguards to ensure the alignment of AI goals with humanity’s best interests.”
• AI in Healthcare : “While AI in healthcare can lead to more accurate diagnoses, it must complement, not replace, the critical thinking and empathy of medical professionals.”
• Deepfakes and Reality : “The advent of deepfake technology, driven by AI, challenges our trust in visual content, pressing for the development of verification tools.”
• AI and Creativity : “The surge of AI in creative fields, from art to music, questions the uniqueness of human creativity and the future role of AI as co-creators.”
• General AI vs. Narrow AI : “While narrow AI excels in specific tasks, the pursuit of general AI, mirroring human intelligence, presents unprecedented challenges and ethical dilemmas.”

Thesis Statement Examples on Medical Technology

The medical field has seen rapid technological advancements, leading to breakthroughs in treatment and patient care. Discussing medical technology often centers around its impact on the patient-doctor relationship and health outcomes.

• Telemedicine : “Telemedicine, while increasing healthcare accessibility, requires rigorous regulation to ensure the quality of care and the privacy of patient data.”
• Gene Editing : “CRISPR and other gene-editing technologies hold promise for eradicating genetic diseases, but they also raise ethical concerns about the potential misuse in creating ‘designer babies’.”
• Wearable Health Tech : “Wearable health devices empower individuals to monitor their health, but also bring concerns about data privacy and the accuracy of health information.”
• 3D Printed Organs : “3D printing of organs could revolutionize transplants, but the technology must first overcome challenges in biocompatibility and functionality.”
• Robot-Assisted Surgery : “Robot-assisted surgeries promise precision and minimized invasiveness, yet the high costs and training requirements present hurdles for widespread adoption.”
• Mental Health Apps : “Digital tools for mental health can democratize access to resources, but they cannot replace the nuanced care provided by human professionals.”
• Nanotechnology in Medicine : “The integration of nanotechnology in medicine offers targeted treatments and drug delivery, but long-term effects on the human body remain largely unknown.”
• Virtual Reality in Therapy : “VR therapies hold potential for treating phobias and PTSD, but research must ensure that virtual experiences translate to real-world recovery.”
• EHR (Electronic Health Records) : “While EHRs streamline medical data management, concerns arise about patient data security and system interoperabilities.”
• AI-driven Diagnosis : “AI-driven diagnostic tools can analyze vast data quickly, but they should act as aides to human clinicians, not replacements.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Technology Essay

General technology essays touch on the overarching theme of how technology shapes society, cultures, and personal interactions. These essays dive deep into both the boons and banes of technological innovation.

• Digital Age and Mental Health : “The digital age, while connecting the world, has also escalated mental health issues, prompting a deeper examination of our relationship with technology.”
• Augmented Humanity : “Biohacking and body augmentations, powered by tech, are pushing the boundaries of human capabilities but also raise ethical questions about self-modification and societal implications.”
• Cybersecurity : “In a hyper-connected world, cybersecurity is not just a technical challenge but a fundamental aspect of ensuring personal rights and national security.”
• Sustainable Technologies : “The rise of sustainable technologies is not a mere trend but a necessity to ensure the future survival and prosperity of our planet.”
• Digital Nomadism : “The evolution of remote work technologies has birthed the digital nomad culture, reshaping traditional perceptions of work-life balance and productivity.”
• Space Technologies : “Emerging space technologies, from satellite constellations to interplanetary exploration, hold the promise of reshaping our understanding of the universe and our place in it.”
• Tech and Pop Culture : “The infusion of technology into pop culture, from movies to music, reflects society’s struggles, aspirations, and dreams in the digital age.”
• Digital Archiving : “The practice of digital archiving is crucial not just for preserving history but for ensuring accountability in the digital era.”
• The Right to Disconnect : “As work and personal life boundaries blur due to technology, there’s a rising demand for the ‘right to disconnect’, ensuring mental well-being.”
• Tech in Urban Planning : “Smart cities, driven by technology, promise enhanced living experiences, but they also raise concerns about surveillance and the loss of privacy.”

Thesis Statement Examples for Technology in the Classroom

Classroom technology has redefined traditional teaching methodologies, leading to a new age of learning. Essays in this category often grapple with the balance between technology and traditional pedagogies.

• Digital Collaboration : “Collaborative tools in classrooms foster teamwork and communication but necessitate guidelines to ensure productive and respectful engagements.”
• Interactive Learning : “Interactive whiteboards and digital simulations can enhance understanding and retention, but educators must ensure they don’t become mere entertainment.”
• Classroom Analytics : “The use of analytics in classrooms promises personalized feedback and interventions, but raises concerns about student privacy and data misuse.”
• Digital Textbooks : “While digital textbooks offer dynamic content and portability, the potential loss of traditional reading skills and tactile learning must be addressed.”
• Flipped Classrooms : “Flipped classrooms, facilitated by technology, encourage student-centered learning at home, but require a redefinition of classroom roles and responsibilities.”
• Tech and Special Needs : “Assistive technologies in classrooms have democratized education for students with special needs, but teachers need training to utilize them effectively.”
• Student Engagement : “Gamified learning platforms can significantly increase student engagement, but there’s a risk of overemphasis on rewards over actual learning outcomes.”
• Distance Learning : “Technology has made distance learning feasible and expansive, yet the challenges of student isolation and self-regulation need addressing.”
• Digital Citizenship : “Teaching digital citizenship in classrooms is essential in the modern age to ensure students use technology responsibly and ethically.”
• Classroom VR : “Introducing virtual reality in classrooms can offer immersive educational experiences, but its efficacy and potential overstimulation issues need thorough research.”

What is a good thesis statement for technology?

A good thesis statement for technology succinctly captures your main argument or perspective on a specific technological issue. Such a statement should exhibit:

• Precision : Clearly articulate your viewpoint on the technological matter, ensuring it isn’t vague.
• Debate Potential : Present a point open to discussion or counterargument, not just a plain fact.
• Current Relevance : Address up-to-date technological advancements or concerns.
• Conciseness : Stay direct and avoid broad overviews.

Example: “Artificial intelligence in healthcare, while promising enhanced patient care, raises pressing ethical concerns.”

How do you write a Technology Thesis Statement? – Step by Step Guide

• Pinpoint a Specific Tech Area : Instead of a broad area like “technology,” zoom into niches: e.g., “Blockchain’s role in data security” or “Virtual Reality in education.”
• Undertake Preliminary Research : Grasp the current scenario of your selected area. Identify ongoing debates, breakthroughs, and challenges.
• State Your Assertion : Your research will guide you to a specific stance. This becomes your thesis’s foundation.
• Check for Debate Potential : Ensure that your assertion isn’t just stating the obvious but invites discussion.
• Maintain Brevity : Keep it succinct—usually, one to two sentences will suffice.
• Iterate : As your research or essay progresses, you might find the need to fine-tune your statement.

Tips for Writing a Thesis Statement on Technology Topics

• Stay Informed : With technology’s rapid pace, being up-to-date is essential. Your thesis should resonate with current technological dialogues.
• Steer Clear of Jargons : If your audience isn’t tech-centric, simplify or explain tech terms for clarity.
• Dive into Ethical Angles : Tech topics often interweave with ethical considerations. Tackling these adds depth.
• Solicit Feedback : Sharing your thesis with colleagues or mentors can offer new viewpoints or refinements.
• Employ Assertive Language : Words like “should,” “must,” or “will” give your statement authority.
• Remain Adaptable : If new evidence emerges as you write, be open to reworking your thesis slightly.
• Link to Broader Implications : Relating your tech topic to wider societal or global issues can offer added layers of significance.
• Ensure Clarity : Your thesis should have one clear interpretation to avoid reader confusion.

By honing these techniques and tips, you’ll be adept at formulating impactful thesis statements tailored to technology-centric topics. As technology continues to shape our world, the ability to critically and concisely discuss its implications is invaluable.  You may also be interested in our Analytical Essay thesis statement .

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Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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A thesis statement is needed in an essay or dissertation . There are multiple types of thesis statements – but generally we can divide them into expository and argumentative. An expository statement is a statement of fact (common in expository essays and process essays) while an argumentative statement is a statement of opinion (common in argumentative essays and dissertations). Below are examples of each.

Strong Thesis Statement Examples

1. School Uniforms

“Mandatory school uniforms should be implemented in educational institutions as they promote a sense of equality, reduce distractions, and foster a focused and professional learning environment.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay or Debate

Read More: School Uniforms Pros and Cons

2. Nature vs Nurture

“This essay will explore how both genetic inheritance and environmental factors equally contribute to shaping human behavior and personality.”

Best For: Compare and Contrast Essay

Read More: Nature vs Nurture Debate

3. American Dream

“The American Dream, a symbol of opportunity and success, is increasingly elusive in today’s socio-economic landscape, revealing deeper inequalities in society.”

Best For: Persuasive Essay

Read More: What is the American Dream?

4. Social Media

“Social media has revolutionized communication and societal interactions, but it also presents significant challenges related to privacy, mental health, and misinformation.”

Best For: Expository Essay

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Social Media

5. Globalization

“Globalization has created a world more interconnected than ever before, yet it also amplifies economic disparities and cultural homogenization.”

Read More: Globalization Pros and Cons

6. Urbanization

“Urbanization drives economic growth and social development, but it also poses unique challenges in sustainability and quality of life.”

Read More: Learn about Urbanization

7. Immigration

“Immigration enriches receiving countries culturally and economically, outweighing any perceived social or economic burdens.”

Read More: Immigration Pros and Cons

8. Cultural Identity

“In a globalized world, maintaining distinct cultural identities is crucial for preserving cultural diversity and fostering global understanding, despite the challenges of assimilation and homogenization.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay

Read More: Learn about Cultural Identity

9. Technology

“Medical technologies in care institutions in Toronto has increased subjcetive outcomes for patients with chronic pain.”

Best For: Research Paper

10. Capitalism vs Socialism

“The debate between capitalism and socialism centers on balancing economic freedom and inequality, each presenting distinct approaches to resource distribution and social welfare.”

11. Cultural Heritage

“The preservation of cultural heritage is essential, not only for cultural identity but also for educating future generations, outweighing the arguments for modernization and commercialization.”

12. Pseudoscience

“Pseudoscience, characterized by a lack of empirical support, continues to influence public perception and decision-making, often at the expense of scientific credibility.”

Read More: Examples of Pseudoscience

13. Free Will

“The concept of free will is largely an illusion, with human behavior and decisions predominantly determined by biological and environmental factors.”

Read More: Do we have Free Will?

14. Gender Roles

“Traditional gender roles are outdated and harmful, restricting individual freedoms and perpetuating gender inequalities in modern society.”

Read More: What are Traditional Gender Roles?

15. Work-Life Ballance

“The trend to online and distance work in the 2020s led to improved subjective feelings of work-life balance but simultaneously increased self-reported loneliness.”

Read More: Work-Life Balance Examples

16. Universal Healthcare

“Universal healthcare is a fundamental human right and the most effective system for ensuring health equity and societal well-being, outweighing concerns about government involvement and costs.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Universal Healthcare

17. Minimum Wage

“The implementation of a fair minimum wage is vital for reducing economic inequality, yet it is often contentious due to its potential impact on businesses and employment rates.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Raising the Minimum Wage

18. Homework

“The homework provided throughout this semester has enabled me to achieve greater self-reflection, identify gaps in my knowledge, and reinforce those gaps through spaced repetition.”

Best For: Reflective Essay

Read More: Reasons Homework Should be Banned

19. Charter Schools

“Charter schools offer alternatives to traditional public education, promising innovation and choice but also raising questions about accountability and educational equity.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Charter Schools

20. Effects of the Internet

“The Internet has drastically reshaped human communication, access to information, and societal dynamics, generally with a net positive effect on society.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of the Internet

21. Affirmative Action

“Affirmative action is essential for rectifying historical injustices and achieving true meritocracy in education and employment, contrary to claims of reverse discrimination.”

Best For: Essay

Read More: Affirmative Action Pros and Cons

22. Soft Skills

“Soft skills, such as communication and empathy, are increasingly recognized as essential for success in the modern workforce, and therefore should be a strong focus at school and university level.”

Read More: Soft Skills Examples

23. Moral Panic

“Moral panic, often fueled by media and cultural anxieties, can lead to exaggerated societal responses that sometimes overlook rational analysis and evidence.”

Read More: Moral Panic Examples

24. Freedom of the Press

“Freedom of the press is critical for democracy and informed citizenship, yet it faces challenges from censorship, media bias, and the proliferation of misinformation.”

Read More: Freedom of the Press Examples

25. Mass Media

“Mass media shapes public opinion and cultural norms, but its concentration of ownership and commercial interests raise concerns about bias and the quality of information.”

Best For: Critical Analysis

Read More: Mass Media Examples

Checklist: How to use your Thesis Statement

✅ Position: If your statement is for an argumentative or persuasive essay, or a dissertation, ensure it takes a clear stance on the topic. ✅ Specificity: It addresses a specific aspect of the topic, providing focus for the essay. ✅ Conciseness: Typically, a thesis statement is one to two sentences long. It should be concise, clear, and easily identifiable. ✅ Direction: The thesis statement guides the direction of the essay, providing a roadmap for the argument, narrative, or explanation. ✅ Evidence-based: While the thesis statement itself doesn’t include evidence, it sets up an argument that can be supported with evidence in the body of the essay. ✅ Placement: Generally, the thesis statement is placed at the end of the introduction of an essay.

Try These AI Prompts – Thesis Statement Generator!

One way to brainstorm thesis statements is to get AI to brainstorm some for you! Try this AI prompt:

💡 AI PROMPT FOR EXPOSITORY THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTUCTIONS]. I want you to create an expository thesis statement that doesn’t argue a position, but demonstrates depth of knowledge about the topic.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR ARGUMENTATIVE THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTRUCTIONS]. I want you to create an argumentative thesis statement that clearly takes a position on this issue.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR COMPARE AND CONTRAST THESIS STATEMENT I am writing a compare and contrast essay that compares [Concept 1] and [Concept2]. Give me 5 potential single-sentence thesis statements that remain objective.

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Thesis Statements

What this handout is about.

This handout describes what a thesis statement is, how thesis statements work in your writing, and how you can craft or refine one for your draft.

Introduction

Writing in college often takes the form of persuasion—convincing others that you have an interesting, logical point of view on the subject you are studying. Persuasion is a skill you practice regularly in your daily life. You persuade your roommate to clean up, your parents to let you borrow the car, your friend to vote for your favorite candidate or policy. In college, course assignments often ask you to make a persuasive case in writing. You are asked to convince your reader of your point of view. This form of persuasion, often called academic argument, follows a predictable pattern in writing. After a brief introduction of your topic, you state your point of view on the topic directly and often in one sentence. This sentence is the thesis statement, and it serves as a summary of the argument you’ll make in the rest of your paper.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement:

• tells the reader how you will interpret the significance of the subject matter under discussion.
• is a road map for the paper; in other words, it tells the reader what to expect from the rest of the paper.
• directly answers the question asked of you. A thesis is an interpretation of a question or subject, not the subject itself. The subject, or topic, of an essay might be World War II or Moby Dick; a thesis must then offer a way to understand the war or the novel.
• makes a claim that others might dispute.
• is usually a single sentence near the beginning of your paper (most often, at the end of the first paragraph) that presents your argument to the reader. The rest of the paper, the body of the essay, gathers and organizes evidence that will persuade the reader of the logic of your interpretation.

If your assignment asks you to take a position or develop a claim about a subject, you may need to convey that position or claim in a thesis statement near the beginning of your draft. The assignment may not explicitly state that you need a thesis statement because your instructor may assume you will include one. When in doubt, ask your instructor if the assignment requires a thesis statement. When an assignment asks you to analyze, to interpret, to compare and contrast, to demonstrate cause and effect, or to take a stand on an issue, it is likely that you are being asked to develop a thesis and to support it persuasively. (Check out our handout on understanding assignments for more information.)

How do I create a thesis?

A thesis is the result of a lengthy thinking process. Formulating a thesis is not the first thing you do after reading an essay assignment. Before you develop an argument on any topic, you have to collect and organize evidence, look for possible relationships between known facts (such as surprising contrasts or similarities), and think about the significance of these relationships. Once you do this thinking, you will probably have a “working thesis” that presents a basic or main idea and an argument that you think you can support with evidence. Both the argument and your thesis are likely to need adjustment along the way.

Writers use all kinds of techniques to stimulate their thinking and to help them clarify relationships or comprehend the broader significance of a topic and arrive at a thesis statement. For more ideas on how to get started, see our handout on brainstorming .

How do I know if my thesis is strong?

If there’s time, run it by your instructor or make an appointment at the Writing Center to get some feedback. Even if you do not have time to get advice elsewhere, you can do some thesis evaluation of your own. When reviewing your first draft and its working thesis, ask yourself the following :

• Do I answer the question? Re-reading the question prompt after constructing a working thesis can help you fix an argument that misses the focus of the question. If the prompt isn’t phrased as a question, try to rephrase it. For example, “Discuss the effect of X on Y” can be rephrased as “What is the effect of X on Y?”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? If your thesis simply states facts that no one would, or even could, disagree with, it’s possible that you are simply providing a summary, rather than making an argument.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? Thesis statements that are too vague often do not have a strong argument. If your thesis contains words like “good” or “successful,” see if you could be more specific: why is something “good”; what specifically makes something “successful”?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? If a reader’s first response is likely to  be “So what?” then you need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue.
• Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. It’s okay to change your working thesis to reflect things you have figured out in the course of writing your paper. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? If a reader’s first response is “how?” or “why?” your thesis may be too open-ended and lack guidance for the reader. See what you can add to give the reader a better take on your position right from the beginning.

Suppose you are taking a course on contemporary communication, and the instructor hands out the following essay assignment: “Discuss the impact of social media on public awareness.” Looking back at your notes, you might start with this working thesis:

Social media impacts public awareness in both positive and negative ways.

You can use the questions above to help you revise this general statement into a stronger thesis.

• Do I answer the question? You can analyze this if you rephrase “discuss the impact” as “what is the impact?” This way, you can see that you’ve answered the question only very generally with the vague “positive and negative ways.”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not likely. Only people who maintain that social media has a solely positive or solely negative impact could disagree.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? No. What are the positive effects? What are the negative effects?
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? No. Why are they positive? How are they positive? What are their causes? Why are they negative? How are they negative? What are their causes?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? No. Why should anyone care about the positive and/or negative impact of social media?

After thinking about your answers to these questions, you decide to focus on the one impact you feel strongly about and have strong evidence for:

Because not every voice on social media is reliable, people have become much more critical consumers of information, and thus, more informed voters.

This version is a much stronger thesis! It answers the question, takes a specific position that others can challenge, and it gives a sense of why it matters.

Let’s try another. Suppose your literature professor hands out the following assignment in a class on the American novel: Write an analysis of some aspect of Mark Twain’s novel Huckleberry Finn. “This will be easy,” you think. “I loved Huckleberry Finn!” You grab a pad of paper and write:

Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn is a great American novel.

You begin to analyze your thesis:

• Do I answer the question? No. The prompt asks you to analyze some aspect of the novel. Your working thesis is a statement of general appreciation for the entire novel.

Think about aspects of the novel that are important to its structure or meaning—for example, the role of storytelling, the contrasting scenes between the shore and the river, or the relationships between adults and children. Now you write:

In Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain develops a contrast between life on the river and life on the shore.

• Do I answer the question? Yes!
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not really. This contrast is well-known and accepted.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? It’s getting there–you have highlighted an important aspect of the novel for investigation. However, it’s still not clear what your analysis will reveal.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? Not yet. Compare scenes from the book and see what you discover. Free write, make lists, jot down Huck’s actions and reactions and anything else that seems interesting.
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? What’s the point of this contrast? What does it signify?”

After examining the evidence and considering your own insights, you write:

Through its contrasting river and shore scenes, Twain’s Huckleberry Finn suggests that to find the true expression of American democratic ideals, one must leave “civilized” society and go back to nature.

This final thesis statement presents an interpretation of a literary work based on an analysis of its content. Of course, for the essay itself to be successful, you must now present evidence from the novel that will convince the reader of your interpretation.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Anson, Chris M., and Robert A. Schwegler. 2010. The Longman Handbook for Writers and Readers , 6th ed. New York: Longman.

Lunsford, Andrea A. 2015. The St. Martin’s Handbook , 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St Martin’s.

Ramage, John D., John C. Bean, and June Johnson. 2018. The Allyn & Bacon Guide to Writing , 8th ed. New York: Pearson.

Ruszkiewicz, John J., Christy Friend, Daniel Seward, and Maxine Hairston. 2010. The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers , 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement: 4 Steps + Examples

What’s Covered:

What is the purpose of a thesis statement, writing a good thesis statement: 4 steps, common pitfalls to avoid, where to get your essay edited for free.

When you set out to write an essay, there has to be some kind of point to it, right? Otherwise, your essay would just be a big jumble of word salad that makes absolutely no sense. An essay needs a central point that ties into everything else. That main point is called a thesis statement, and it’s the core of any essay or research paper.

You may hear about Master degree candidates writing a thesis, and that is an entire paper–not to be confused with the thesis statement, which is typically one sentence that contains your paper’s focus. 

Read on to learn more about thesis statements and how to write them. We’ve also included some solid examples for you to reference.

Typically the last sentence of your introductory paragraph, the thesis statement serves as the roadmap for your essay. When your reader gets to the thesis statement, they should have a clear outline of your main point, as well as the information you’ll be presenting in order to either prove or support your point. 

The thesis statement should not be confused for a topic sentence , which is the first sentence of every paragraph in your essay. If you need help writing topic sentences, numerous resources are available. Topic sentences should go along with your thesis statement, though.

Since the thesis statement is the most important sentence of your entire essay or paper, it’s imperative that you get this part right. Otherwise, your paper will not have a good flow and will seem disjointed. That’s why it’s vital not to rush through developing one. It’s a methodical process with steps that you need to follow in order to create the best thesis statement possible.

Step 1: Decide what kind of paper you’re writing

When you’re assigned an essay, there are several different types you may get. Argumentative essays are designed to get the reader to agree with you on a topic. Informative or expository essays present information to the reader. Analytical essays offer up a point and then expand on it by analyzing relevant information. Thesis statements can look and sound different based on the type of paper you’re writing. For example:

• Argumentative: The United States needs a viable third political party to decrease bipartisanship, increase options, and help reduce corruption in government.
• Informative: The Libertarian party has thrown off elections before by gaining enough support in states to get on the ballot and by taking away crucial votes from candidates.
• Analytical: An analysis of past presidential elections shows that while third party votes may have been the minority, they did affect the outcome of the elections in 2020, 2016, and beyond.

Step 2: Figure out what point you want to make

Once you know what type of paper you’re writing, you then need to figure out the point you want to make with your thesis statement, and subsequently, your paper. In other words, you need to decide to answer a question about something, such as:

• What impact did reality TV have on American society?
• How has the musical Hamilton affected perception of American history?
• Why do I want to major in [chosen major here]?

If you have an argumentative essay, then you will be writing about an opinion. To make it easier, you may want to choose an opinion that you feel passionate about so that you’re writing about something that interests you. For example, if you have an interest in preserving the environment, you may want to choose a topic that relates to that. 

If you’re writing your college essay and they ask why you want to attend that school, you may want to have a main point and back it up with information, something along the lines of:

“Attending Harvard University would benefit me both academically and professionally, as it would give me a strong knowledge base upon which to build my career, develop my network, and hopefully give me an advantage in my chosen field.”

Step 3: Determine what information you’ll use to back up your point

Once you have the point you want to make, you need to figure out how you plan to back it up throughout the rest of your essay. Without this information, it will be hard to either prove or argue the main point of your thesis statement. If you decide to write about the Hamilton example, you may decide to address any falsehoods that the writer put into the musical, such as:

“The musical Hamilton, while accurate in many ways, leaves out key parts of American history, presents a nationalist view of founding fathers, and downplays the racism of the times.”

Once you’ve written your initial working thesis statement, you’ll then need to get information to back that up. For example, the musical completely leaves out Benjamin Franklin, portrays the founding fathers in a nationalist way that is too complimentary, and shows Hamilton as a staunch abolitionist despite the fact that his family likely did own slaves. 

Step 4: Revise and refine your thesis statement before you start writing

Read through your thesis statement several times before you begin to compose your full essay. You need to make sure the statement is ironclad, since it is the foundation of the entire paper. Edit it or have a peer review it for you to make sure everything makes sense and that you feel like you can truly write a paper on the topic. Once you’ve done that, you can then begin writing your paper.

When writing a thesis statement, there are some common pitfalls you should avoid so that your paper can be as solid as possible. Make sure you always edit the thesis statement before you do anything else. You also want to ensure that the thesis statement is clear and concise. Don’t make your reader hunt for your point. Finally, put your thesis statement at the end of the first paragraph and have your introduction flow toward that statement. Your reader will expect to find your statement in its traditional spot.

If you’re having trouble getting started, or need some guidance on your essay, there are tools available that can help you. CollegeVine offers a free peer essay review tool where one of your peers can read through your essay and provide you with valuable feedback. Getting essay feedback from a peer can help you wow your instructor or college admissions officer with an impactful essay that effectively illustrates your point.

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Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements

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Tips for Writing Your Thesis Statement

1. Determine what kind of paper you are writing:

• An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
• An expository (explanatory) paper explains something to the audience.
• An argumentative paper makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, a cause-and-effect statement, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that the claim is true based on the evidence provided.

If you are writing a text that does not fall under these three categories (e.g., a narrative), a thesis statement somewhere in the first paragraph could still be helpful to your reader.

2. Your thesis statement should be specific—it should cover only what you will discuss in your paper and should be supported with specific evidence.

3. The thesis statement usually appears at the end of the first paragraph of a paper.

4. Your topic may change as you write, so you may need to revise your thesis statement to reflect exactly what you have discussed in the paper.

Thesis Statement Examples

Example of an analytical thesis statement:

The paper that follows should:

• Explain the analysis of the college admission process
• Explain the challenge facing admissions counselors

Example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement:

• Explain how students spend their time studying, attending class, and socializing with peers

Example of an argumentative thesis statement:

• Present an argument and give evidence to support the claim that students should pursue community projects before entering college

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Writing a Paper: Thesis Statements

Basics of thesis statements.

The thesis statement is the brief articulation of your paper's central argument and purpose. You might hear it referred to as simply a "thesis." Every scholarly paper should have a thesis statement, and strong thesis statements are concise, specific, and arguable. Concise means the thesis is short: perhaps one or two sentences for a shorter paper. Specific means the thesis deals with a narrow and focused topic, appropriate to the paper's length. Arguable means that a scholar in your field could disagree (or perhaps already has!).

Strong thesis statements address specific intellectual questions, have clear positions, and use a structure that reflects the overall structure of the paper. Read on to learn more about constructing a strong thesis statement.

Being Specific

This thesis statement has no specific argument:

Needs Improvement: In this essay, I will examine two scholarly articles to find similarities and differences.

This statement is concise, but it is neither specific nor arguable—a reader might wonder, "Which scholarly articles? What is the topic of this paper? What field is the author writing in?" Additionally, the purpose of the paper—to "examine…to find similarities and differences" is not of a scholarly level. Identifying similarities and differences is a good first step, but strong academic argument goes further, analyzing what those similarities and differences might mean or imply.

Better: In this essay, I will argue that Bowler's (2003) autocratic management style, when coupled with Smith's (2007) theory of social cognition, can reduce the expenses associated with employee turnover.

The new revision here is still concise, as well as specific and arguable.  We can see that it is specific because the writer is mentioning (a) concrete ideas and (b) exact authors.  We can also gather the field (business) and the topic (management and employee turnover). The statement is arguable because the student goes beyond merely comparing; he or she draws conclusions from that comparison ("can reduce the expenses associated with employee turnover").

Making a Unique Argument

This thesis draft repeats the language of the writing prompt without making a unique argument:

Needs Improvement: The purpose of this essay is to monitor, assess, and evaluate an educational program for its strengths and weaknesses. Then, I will provide suggestions for improvement.

You can see here that the student has simply stated the paper's assignment, without articulating specifically how he or she will address it. The student can correct this error simply by phrasing the thesis statement as a specific answer to the assignment prompt.

Better: Through a series of student interviews, I found that Kennedy High School's antibullying program was ineffective. In order to address issues of conflict between students, I argue that Kennedy High School should embrace policies outlined by the California Department of Education (2010).

Words like "ineffective" and "argue" show here that the student has clearly thought through the assignment and analyzed the material; he or she is putting forth a specific and debatable position. The concrete information ("student interviews," "antibullying") further prepares the reader for the body of the paper and demonstrates how the student has addressed the assignment prompt without just restating that language.

Creating a Debate

This thesis statement includes only obvious fact or plot summary instead of argument:

Needs Improvement: Leadership is an important quality in nurse educators.

A good strategy to determine if your thesis statement is too broad (and therefore, not arguable) is to ask yourself, "Would a scholar in my field disagree with this point?" Here, we can see easily that no scholar is likely to argue that leadership is an unimportant quality in nurse educators.  The student needs to come up with a more arguable claim, and probably a narrower one; remember that a short paper needs a more focused topic than a dissertation.

Better: Roderick's (2009) theory of participatory leadership  is particularly appropriate to nurse educators working within the emergency medicine field, where students benefit most from collegial and kinesthetic learning.

Here, the student has identified a particular type of leadership ("participatory leadership"), narrowing the topic, and has made an arguable claim (this type of leadership is "appropriate" to a specific type of nurse educator). Conceivably, a scholar in the nursing field might disagree with this approach. The student's paper can now proceed, providing specific pieces of evidence to support the arguable central claim.

Choosing the Right Words

This thesis statement uses large or scholarly-sounding words that have no real substance:

Needs Improvement: Scholars should work to seize metacognitive outcomes by harnessing discipline-based networks to empower collaborative infrastructures.

There are many words in this sentence that may be buzzwords in the student's field or key terms taken from other texts, but together they do not communicate a clear, specific meaning. Sometimes students think scholarly writing means constructing complex sentences using special language, but actually it's usually a stronger choice to write clear, simple sentences. When in doubt, remember that your ideas should be complex, not your sentence structure.

Better: Ecologists should work to educate the U.S. public on conservation methods by making use of local and national green organizations to create a widespread communication plan.

Notice in the revision that the field is now clear (ecology), and the language has been made much more field-specific ("conservation methods," "green organizations"), so the reader is able to see concretely the ideas the student is communicating.

Leaving Room for Discussion

This thesis statement is not capable of development or advancement in the paper:

Needs Improvement: There are always alternatives to illegal drug use.

This sample thesis statement makes a claim, but it is not a claim that will sustain extended discussion. This claim is the type of claim that might be appropriate for the conclusion of a paper, but in the beginning of the paper, the student is left with nowhere to go. What further points can be made? If there are "always alternatives" to the problem the student is identifying, then why bother developing a paper around that claim? Ideally, a thesis statement should be complex enough to explore over the length of the entire paper.

Better: The most effective treatment plan for methamphetamine addiction may be a combination of pharmacological and cognitive therapy, as argued by Baker (2008), Smith (2009), and Xavier (2011).

In the revised thesis, you can see the student make a specific, debatable claim that has the potential to generate several pages' worth of discussion. When drafting a thesis statement, think about the questions your thesis statement will generate: What follow-up inquiries might a reader have? In the first example, there are almost no additional questions implied, but the revised example allows for a good deal more exploration.

Thesis Mad Libs

If you are having trouble getting started, try using the models below to generate a rough model of a thesis statement! These models are intended for drafting purposes only and should not appear in your final work.

• In this essay, I argue ____, using ______ to assert _____.
• While scholars have often argued ______, I argue______, because_______.
• Through an analysis of ______, I argue ______, which is important because_______.

Words to Avoid and to Embrace

When drafting your thesis statement, avoid words like explore, investigate, learn, compile, summarize , and explain to describe the main purpose of your paper. These words imply a paper that summarizes or "reports," rather than synthesizing and analyzing.

Instead of the terms above, try words like argue, critique, question , and interrogate . These more analytical words may help you begin strongly, by articulating a specific, critical, scholarly position.

Read Kayla's blog post for tips on taking a stand in a well-crafted thesis statement.

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