college level thesis outline

25 Thesis Statement Examples

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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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Research Paper: A step-by-step guide: 3. Thesis Statement & Outline

• 1. Getting Started
• 2. Topic Ideas
• 3. Thesis Statement & Outline
• 4. Appropriate Sources
• 5. Search Techniques
• 6. Taking Notes & Documenting Sources
• 7. Evaluating Sources
• 8. Citations & Plagiarism
• 9. Writing Your Research Paper

About Thesis Statements

Qualities of a thesis statement.

Thesis statements:

• state the subject matter and main ideas of a paper.
• appear in the first paragraph and announces what you will discuss in your paper.
• define the scope and focus of your essay, and tells your reader what to expect.  
• are not a simple factual statement.  It is an assertion that states your claims and that you can prove with evidence.
• should be the product of research and your own critical thinking.
• can be very helpful in constructing an outline for your essay; for each point you make, ask yourself whether it is relevant to the thesis.

Steps you can use to create a thesis statement

1. Start out with the main topic and focus of your essay.

youth gangs + prevention and intervention programs

2. Make a claim or argument in one sentence.  It can be helpful to start with a question which you then turn into an argument

Can prevention and intervention programs stop youth gang activities?  How?  ►►►  "Prevention and intervention programs can stop youth gang activities by giving teens something else to do."

3. Revise the sentence by using specific terms.

"Early prevention programs in schools are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement by giving teens good activities that offer a path to success."

4. Further revise the sentence to cover the scope of your essay and make a strong statement.

"Among various prevention and intervention efforts that have been made to deal with the rapid growth of youth gangs, early school-based prevention programs are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement, which they do by giving teens meaningful activities that offer pathways to achievement and success."

5. Keep your thesis statement flexible and revise it as needed. In the process of researching and writing, you may find new information or refine your understanding of the topic.

You can view this short video for more tips on how to write a clear thesis statement.

An outline is the skeleton of your essay, in which you list the arguments and subtopics in a logical order. A good outline is an important element in writing a good paper. An outline helps to target your research areas, keep you within the scope without going off-track, and it can also help to keep your argument in good order when writing the essay.  Once your outline is in good shape, it is much easier to write your paper; you've already done most of the thinking, so you just need to fill in the outline with a paragraph for each point.

To write an outline: The most common way to write an outline is the list format.  List all the major topics and subtopics with the key points that support them. Put similar topics and points together and arrange them in a logical order.    Include an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. 

A list outline should arrange the main points or arguments in a hierarchical structure indicated by Roman numerals for main ideas (I, II, III...), capital letters for subtopics (A, B, C...), Arabic numerals for details (1,2,3...), and lower-case letters for fine details if needed (a,b,c...). This helps keep things organized.  

Here is a shortened example of an outline:

Introduction: background and thesis statement

I. First topic

1. Supporting evidence 2. Supporting evidence

II. Second Topic

III. Third Topic

I. Summarize the main points of your paper II. Restate your thesis in different words III. Make a strong final statement

You can see examples of a few different kinds of outlines and get more help at the Purdue OWL .

• << Previous: 2. Topic Ideas
• Next: 4. Appropriate Sources >>
• Last Updated: Apr 18, 2023 12:12 PM
• URL: https://butte.libguides.com/ResearchPaper

While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.

This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.  

Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence) 

Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.

This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.  

Arguable thesis with analytical claim 

While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.

This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.  

Arguable thesis with normative claim 

Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.

This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.  

Questions to ask about your thesis 

• Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?  
• Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?  
• Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?  
• Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?  
• Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
• picture_as_pdf Thesis

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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.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

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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College Essay Thesis Statement

College essay thesis statement generator.

Crafting a potent thesis statement for a college essay is an art that can shape the trajectory of your argument and captivate your readers. As students transition from high school to college, the complexity and depth of essays increase, demanding more intricate thesis statements. Whether you’re dissecting literary works, examining scientific phenomena, or debating societal changes, the right thesis sets the tone. Dive into our comprehensive guide to explore exemplary thesis statement examples, insightful writing methodologies, and handy tips tailored for college-level essays.

What is a thesis statement for a college essay? – Definition

A thesis statement for a college essay is a concise, clear, one-to-two-sentence statement that presents the main idea, argument, or focus of an essay. It serves as a roadmap, guiding the reader through the arguments presented in the essay and giving them an insight into the essay’s purpose. For college-level essays, the thesis often goes beyond mere statement of facts, delving into analysis, evaluation, or interpretation of a particular topic or set of ideas.

What is an example of a College Essay thesis statement?

“In exploring the multifaceted dynamics of climate change, it becomes evident that human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, play a paramount role in exacerbating global warming, thereby necessitating urgent international intervention and sustainable practices.”  You may also be interested in our  undergraduate thesis statement .

100 Thesis Statement Examples for College Essay

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Crafting an impactful thesis statement for a college essay requires both precision and depth. Serving as the foundation for your argument, a well-constructed thesis captures the essence of your essay topic and directs the narrative. For college essays, the good thesis statement often provides analysis, context, or a unique perspective.

• The Impacts of Social Media: “The pervasive influence of social media on contemporary society extends beyond communication, reshaping personal identities, societal norms, and global politics.”
• Modern Feminism: “Third-wave feminism, while building on the achievements of the past, focuses on dismantling patriarchal norms in media, workplace dynamics, and intersectional discrimination.”
• AI and Ethics: “The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence necessitates the development of comprehensive ethical guidelines to prevent potential misuse and protect individual rights.”
• The Evolution of Jazz: “The metamorphosis of jazz from the 1920s to the present showcases a rich interplay of cultural influences, technological advances, and individual genius.”
• Climate Change Politics: “The divisive politics surrounding climate change hinder comprehensive global policies, despite overwhelming scientific consensus and observable ecological shifts.”
• Renaissance Art: “The art of the Renaissance, deeply rooted in religious themes, also mirrored societal shifts towards individualism and secularism, forever changing the trajectory of Western art.”
• Quantum Mechanics for Laymen: “The principles of quantum mechanics, while seemingly abstract and counterintuitive, have direct implications on daily technologies, from smartphones to medical equipment.”
• Mental Health in Universities: “The alarming rise in mental health issues among university students calls for institutional strategies that prioritize well-being, including better counseling services and academic support.”
• Post-Colonial African Economies: “The economic landscapes of post-colonial African nations are shaped by both remnants of colonial exploitation and emerging local innovations, demanding a nuanced understanding.”
• Veganism and Health: “Adopting a vegan lifestyle, while promoting ethical treatment of animals, also offers profound health benefits, including reduced risks of chronic diseases.”
• Gothic Literature: “Gothic literature, with its dark motifs and introspective characters, reflects societal anxieties of its time, from feudal systems to industrial revolution repercussions.”
• Cryptocurrencies and Global Finance: “The surge in cryptocurrency popularity challenges traditional financial systems, promising decentralization but also raising concerns about stability and regulation.”
• The Philosophy of Science: “The philosophy of science not only questions the nature of scientific inquiry but also examines its relationship with truth, belief, and societal progress.”
• Migration Patterns: “Contemporary global migration patterns, influenced by conflicts, economic opportunities, and environmental changes, reshape socio-political landscapes of both origin and host countries.”
• The Role of Play in Child Development: “Structured and unstructured play, essential for child development, fosters cognitive, social, and physical skills, challenging contemporary educational paradigms.”
• Fusion Cuisine: “The emergence of fusion cuisine underscores the melding of diverse cultures, reflecting globalization’s impact on gastronomy.”
• Bioethical Concerns in Genetics: “Advancements in genetic engineering, while promising medical breakthroughs, raise significant bioethical concerns, from designer babies to socio-economic disparities.”
• Space Exploration and Humanity: “Space exploration, beyond technological marvel, challenges our understanding of humanity’s place in the universe, posing philosophical, ethical, and existential questions.”
• Gentrification and Urban Development: “The process of gentrification, while reviving urban locales, often displaces long-standing communities, creating socio-economic rifts.”
• Eastern vs. Western Medicine: “The dichotomy between Eastern holistic practices and Western allopathic medicine reflects differing cultural perspectives on health, wellness, and healing.
• The Impact of Greek Philosophy: “Ancient Greek philosophy, with its emphasis on introspection and ethics, has sculpted Western thought, influencing everything from science to modern governance.”
• Modern Architecture: “Contemporary architectural practices, merging functionality with aesthetics, reflect society’s evolving relationship with urban spaces and sustainability.”
• Digital Marketing Evolution: “The rise of digital marketing strategies, driven by analytics and personalization, is redefining brand-consumer relationships in the digital age.”
• Epidemiology of Pandemics: “Historical and contemporary pandemics highlight the intricate interplay between global travel, public health infrastructure, and societal response.”
• Romantic Poetry: “Romantic poetry, with its reverence for nature and emotion, represents a rebellion against Enlightenment’s rationalism and the industrial era’s dehumanization.”
• Nano-technology in Medicine: “Nanotechnology’s integration in medical fields promises revolutionary treatments but also presents uncharted ethical and health concerns.”
• Organic Farming vs. Conventional Methods: “Organic farming, championing biodiversity and ecological balance, counters conventional farming’s detrimental environmental effects, albeit with challenges of scalability.”
• The World of eSports: “The meteoric rise of eSports blurs the lines between traditional sports and digital entertainment, demanding recognition in mainstream culture and economics.”
• Biodiversity Loss: “The alarming rate of global biodiversity loss, intensified by human activities, jeopardizes ecosystem stability and human sustenance.”
• Shakespeare’s Female Characters: “Shakespeare’s portrayal of female characters defies Elizabethan norms, presenting complex women who navigate power, love, and fate.”
• Blockchain Beyond Cryptocurrency: “Blockchain’s potential extends beyond cryptocurrencies, promising transparency and security in sectors like healthcare, logistics, and public records.”
• Impact of K-Pop: “K-Pop’s global surge underscores the power of cultural exchange in the digital age, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers.”
• Neuroscience and Free Will: “Contemporary neuroscience’s insights into decision-making challenge traditional notions of free will and moral responsibility.”
• Postmodern Literature: “Postmodern literature, with its fragmented narratives and metafictional techniques, mirrors society’s quest for meaning in an age of skepticism.”
• Renewable Energy Solutions: “Harnessing renewable energy sources, from solar to wind, is pivotal in combating climate change, though it presents economic and infrastructural challenges.”
• Virtual Reality in Education: “The integration of virtual reality in educational settings promises immersive learning experiences, revolutionizing traditional pedagogies.”
• Mental Health and Pop Culture: “Pop culture’s portrayal of mental health, while often sensationalized, has ignited critical discussions about stigmatization and representation.”
• Ancient Civilizations and Modern Society: “Ancient civilizations, from their governance structures to technological innovations, have indelibly shaped the socio-cultural fabric of modern societies.”
• Dystopian Fiction’s Reflections: “Dystopian fiction’s grim visions echo societal anxieties about technology, governance, and human nature.”
• The Ethics of Animal Testing: “Animal testing, central to many scientific breakthroughs, remains ethically contentious, balancing medical advancements against animal welfare.”
• Financial Crises and Global Interconnectivity: “Recurrent financial crises underscore the intricate interdependencies in global financial systems, highlighting the need for coordinated international policies.”
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: “The integration of AI in healthcare, from diagnostics to treatment, promises precision medicine but necessitates rigorous ethical scrutiny.”
• Buddhism in the Modern World: “Buddhism’s contemporary resurgence in the West showcases the quest for spiritual meaning beyond materialism.”
• The Fashion Industry and Sustainability: “The fashion industry’s increasing shift towards sustainability battles its historically significant environmental footprint.”
• Impacts of Colonization: “Colonization’s legacies, evident in socio-political structures and cultural dynamics, continue to influence post-colonial nations.”
• Microplastics and Environmental Health: “Microplastics, pervasive in ecosystems, pose insidious threats to environmental and human health, demanding global mitigation strategies.”
• Cybersecurity in the Digital Age: “In our increasingly interconnected world, cybersecurity becomes paramount, safeguarding personal, corporate, and national interests.”
• Narratives in Video Games: “Modern video games, with intricate narratives and character development, challenge traditional storytelling mediums, offering immersive experiences.”
• Quantum Computing’s Potential: “Quantum computing, while in its nascent stages, holds the promise to revolutionize industries from cryptography to drug discovery.”
• LGBTQ+ Representation in Media: “Increased LGBTQ+ representation in media mirrors societal shifts, fostering visibility and challenging long-standing stereotypes.”
• The Microbiome and Human Health: “Understanding the human microbiome’s complexity has redefined our perspectives on health, disease, and even consciousness.”
• The Digital Divide: “The digital divide, separating tech-savvy communities from the underserved, intensifies socio-economic disparities in the information age.”
• Evolution of Language: “The dynamic evolution of languages, shaped by socio-political changes and technological advances, encapsulates cultural histories and identities.”
• Ethical Implications of Drone Warfare: “Drone warfare, while mitigating soldier casualties, raises pressing ethical concerns regarding civilian impacts and accountability.”
• Impact of Streaming Services: “Streaming services, redefining media consumption, challenge traditional entertainment industries and reshape global cultural dynamics.”
• Yoga’s Global Popularity: “Yoga’s global ascent, beyond a physical regimen, underscores a universal quest for holistic well-being and cultural exchange.”
• Future of Work and Automation: “Automation and AI’s rise promises efficiency but also necessitates a reevaluation of work, identity, and economic structures.”
• Middle Eastern Politics: “The complexities of Middle Eastern politics, rooted in historical, religious, and socio-economic intricacies, shape global geopolitics.”
• Psychedelics and Mental Health: “Recent research on psychedelics hints at groundbreaking mental health treatments, challenging established therapeutic norms and societal perceptions.”
• Modernism in Visual Arts: “Modernist art, with its abstracted forms and innovative techniques, reflects a tumultuous era’s socio-cultural upheavals.”
• Impact of Autonomous Vehicles: “The emergence of autonomous vehicles, while promising safety and efficiency, raises ethical, economic, and infrastructural questions.”
• Indigenous Rights and Globalization: “Globalization’s sweep, often erasing indigenous cultures, necessitates urgent measures to preserve native rights, languages, and traditions.”
• Role of Cryptography: “Cryptography, foundational to digital security, balances the dual imperatives of privacy protection and lawful surveillance.”
• The Ethics of Gene Editing: “Gene editing technologies like CRISPR, promising medical marvels, also provoke ethical dilemmas concerning genetic determinism and potential misuse.”
• Music Therapy and Health: “Music therapy’s efficacy, bridging neurology and emotions, offers holistic approaches to mental and physical wellness.”
• Impact of Fast Fashion: “Fast fashion’s allure of affordability comes at significant environmental and ethical costs, spotlighting the need for sustainable alternatives.”
• Space Tourism’s Future: “Space tourism, once a sci-fi dream, confronts real-world challenges of safety, ethics, and environmental impact.”
• Role of Microfinance in Development: “Microfinance initiatives, empowering marginalized communities, showcase a potent blend of social welfare and economic strategy.”
• Migration and Globalization: “Globalization, driving migration patterns, highlights the interplay between economic opportunity, cultural exchange, and socio-political challenges.”
• Role of Satire in Social Commentary: “Satire, with its humor and critique, has historically been a potent tool for social commentary, challenging power structures and societal norms.”
• Evolution of E-commerce: “E-commerce, transformed by technological innovations and consumer behaviors, is reshaping global retail, logistics, and consumer expectations.”
• Rise of Citizen Journalism: “Citizen journalism, democratizing news dissemination, challenges traditional media paradigms but also raises concerns about credibility and accountability.”
• Green Technologies and Urban Planning: “Green technologies in urban planning promise sustainable cityscapes, melding ecological concerns with inhabitants’ well-being.”
• Multilingualism and Cognitive Benefits: “Multilingualism, beyond cultural enrichment, offers cognitive benefits, enhancing problem-solving, multitasking, and memory.”
• Human Rights in Digital Surveillance: “The rise of digital surveillance, while promising security, poses grave concerns about privacy, freedom, and human rights.”
• History and Evolution of Tattoos: “Tattoos, once a cultural or ritualistic symbol, have evolved into a form of personal expression, influenced by global aesthetics and societal shifts.”
• Neopets and Early Internet Culture: “Neopets, while a nostalgic game for many, provides insights into early internet culture, commerce, and online community dynamics.”
• Historical Revolutions and Modern Impacts: “Historical revolutions, shaping nations and cultures, offer insights into resistance, societal change, and the enduring human spirit.”
• Gaming and Social Skills: “Contrary to popular belief, modern multiplayer gaming environments foster critical social skills, teamwork, and global collaboration.”
• Oscar Wilde’s Social Commentary: “Oscar Wilde’s literary works, beyond their wit, provide incisive social commentary on Victorian society, morality, and hypocrisy.”
• Paleo Diet in Modern Times: “The Paleo diet’s resurgence, inspired by ancestral eating patterns, challenges contemporary dietary norms and industrial food practices.”
• Ancient Mythologies in Modern Media: “Ancient mythologies, continually reinvented in modern media, highlight humanity’s enduring fascination with heroism, morality, and the unknown.”
• Pop Art and Consumer Culture: “Pop art, celebrating and critiquing consumer culture, reflects the post-war era’s juxtaposition of prosperity and existential angst.”
• Classical Music’s Modern Revival: “Classical music’s modern revival, fused with genres from rock to techno, illustrates its timeless adaptability and emotional resonance.”
• Modern Slavery and Global Supply Chains: “Modern slavery, concealed within global supply chains, necessitates rigorous corporate responsibility and consumer awareness.”
• Manga and Cultural Export: “Manga’s global popularity showcases Japan’s cultural export’s potency and the universality of its themes and narratives.”
• Impact of Reality TV: “Reality TV, blending entertainment and real-life, influences societal norms, aspirations, and perceptions of authenticity.”
• Influence of Nordic Noir on Crime Fiction: “Nordic Noir, with its bleak landscapes and introspective detectives, has reshaped global crime fiction, emphasizing atmosphere and social critique.”
• Data Privacy in the Digital World: “As personal data becomes the new gold, the tug-of-war between corporate interests, governmental regulations, and individual privacy intensifies.”
• Adaptations and Originality in Cinema: “Film adaptations, while deriving from original sources, pose challenges and opportunities for creativity, fidelity, and cultural interpretation.”
• Eco-Tourism’s Role and Responsibilities: “Eco-tourism, promoting sustainable travel, carries the responsibility of genuine environmental stewardship, not mere green-washing.”
• Post-Apocalyptic Fiction’s Appeal: “Post-apocalyptic fiction’s allure lies in exploring societal rebuilds, human resilience, and moral dilemmas in extremis.”
• Veganism’s Socio-Economic Impact: “Veganism, beyond dietary choice, influences global agriculture, economies, and debates on ethics and sustainability.”
• Matriarchy in Historical Societies: “Historical matriarchal societies, often overshadowed in mainstream historiography, offer insights into gender dynamics, leadership, and cultural norms.”
• Impressionism and Perception: “Impressionist artists, capturing fleeting moments and atmospheres, challenge viewers to consider the subjective nature of perception.”
• Decolonizing Global Education: “Decolonizing education necessitates a reevaluation of curricula, pedagogy, and institutional structures, embracing diverse knowledge systems.”
• Renaissance Humanism’s Legacy: “Renaissance humanism, championing reason, art, and individual potential, laid the groundwork for modern Western thought.”
• Cyberpunk and Technological Dystopia: “Cyberpunk literature, exploring high-tech dystopias, reflects anxieties about unchecked technological advancements and societal control.”
• Holistic Medicine’s Role in Modern Healthcare: “Holistic medicine’s growing role emphasizes a comprehensive view of health, blending physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.”
• Feminism’s Waves and Evolution: “Understanding feminism requires studying its multifaceted waves, each addressing unique socio-political contexts and challenges.

These thesis statements are designed to encompass a vast array of topics suitable for college essays, providing a foundation upon which a student can build their argument or exploration.

Thesis Statement Examples for College Argumentative Essay

In a college argumentative essay thesis statement clearly states a position on a debatable issue, setting the tone for the subsequent arguments. It’s crafted to persuade readers and backed up with solid evidence throughout the essay.

• Censorship and Art: “Art should remain uncensored as it serves as society’s mirror, reflecting both its beauty and ugliness.”
• Mandatory Voting: “Mandatory voting should not be imposed as it infringes on personal freedom and may lead to uninformed decisions.”
• Digital Privacy: “In the digital age, individual privacy rights should supersede governmental security concerns.”
• Standardized Testing: “Standardized tests fail to accurately measure student intelligence and should be de-emphasized in college admissions.”
• Veganism and Environment: “Adopting a vegan lifestyle is the most impactful step an individual can take for environmental conservation.”
• Space Exploration: “Investment in space exploration is not an extravagance but a necessity for scientific advancement.”
• Tuition-free College: “Tuition-free college, while an idealistic notion, may not be the most practical solution for educational reform.”
• Universal Basic Income: “A Universal Basic Income (UBI) can address socio-economic disparities and provide a safety net in a rapidly automating world.”
• E-sports Recognition: “E-sports should receive the same recognition and support as traditional sports, given its competitive nature and vast audience.”
• Language Preservation: “With globalization, proactive steps are essential to preserve endangered languages and, by extension, cultural diversity.”

Thesis Statement Examples for College Admission Essay

For a college admission essay, the thesis statement encapsulates the main idea or theme the applicant wishes to convey. It highlights personal experiences, values, or aspirations in a succinct manner.

• Personal Growth: “My year volunteering in Nepal transformed my worldview, instilling in me a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and global citizenship.”
• Pursuit of Medicine: “A close encounter with a life-threatening illness in my family ignited my unwavering passion for medicine.”
• Artistic Endeavors: “Growing up in a family of artists, I’ve learned to view the world as a canvas of endless possibilities.”
• Overcoming Adversities: “Battling dyslexia not only strengthened my resolve but also shaped my unique perspective on learning and adaptability.”
• Leadership Evolution: “My role as the student council president honed my leadership skills, teaching me the nuances of collaboration and decision-making.”
• Environmental Activism: “Witnessing the impact of climate change in my hometown propelled me into environmental activism, a mission I wish to expand in college.”
• Science and Curiosity: “My childhood fascination with the cosmos steered me towards astrophysics, a field where my curiosity finds its calling.”
• Global Engagement: “Participating in Model United Nations cultivated my interest in global affairs and diplomacy.”
• Digital Innovation: “Creating my first mobile app at 15 revealed my penchant for technological innovation and problem-solving.”
• Sports and Teamwork: “Being a basketball team captain taught me the balance between individual prowess and collective strength.”

3 Point Thesis Statement Examples for College Essay

A three-point thesis statement offers a concise overview of three main arguments or aspects that will be addressed in the essay. This structure helps guide the reader and provides a clear roadmap of the writer’s points.

• Impact of Social Media: “Social media revolutionizes communication, influences self-perception, and has significant socio-political implications.”
• Modern Education’s Challenges: “Today’s education system grapples with technological integration, evolving pedagogies, and increasing mental health concerns among students.”
• Globally Influential Novels: “Novels like ‘1984,’ ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ and ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ tackle dystopian futures, racial injustice, and magical realism, respectively.”
• Urbanization Concerns: “Rapid urbanization leads to infrastructural strain, environmental degradation, and socio-cultural shifts in metropolitan areas.”
• The Power of Music: “Music serves as a universal language, a therapeutic tool, and a reflection of societal epochs.”
• Digital Age Revolution: “The digital age reshapes information accessibility, interpersonal relationships, and global economic structures.”
• Human-Animal Bond: “The relationship between humans and animals encompasses companionship, therapeutic benefits, and ethical dilemmas.”
• Climate Change Effects: “Climate change precipitates extreme weather events, threatens biodiversity, and impacts global socio-economic structures.”
• Ancient Civilizations’ Legacies: “Ancient Egypt, Greece, and China profoundly influenced art and architecture, political systems, and philosophical thought.”
• Healthy Lifestyle Components: “A holistic healthy lifestyle encompasses balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and mental well-being.

Do College Essays Have Thesis Statements?

Absolutely. While the format might vary, the thesis statement’s role remains crucial in college essays. It captures the essence of your argument or the main point you’re conveying. From analytical to personal narratives, having a clear thesis or central idea can elevate your essay.

How Do You Write a Thesis Statement for a College Essay? – Step by Step Guide

• Decipher the Prompt: Begin by breaking down the essay question. Recognize its nuances and understand its demands.
• Pick a Relevant Topic: Your chosen topic should not only intrigue you but should also be relevant to your course and the prompt.
• Engage in Research: Dive into scholarly articles, journals, and credible online sources to gather insights and refine your perspective.
• Formulate Your Argument: Deduce your stance or the main message you want to communicate.
• Aim for Precision: Your thesis should be a beacon for your essay. Avoid ambiguity and be direct.
• Ensure It’s Open to Debate: Particularly for argumentative essays, your thesis should incite discussion, signaling that there’s more to be explored.
• Positioning is Key: Place your thesis towards the end of your introduction to give readers a clear roadmap.
• Iterate: As your essay evolves, adjust your thesis if necessary to mirror your arguments more accurately.
• Seek Peer Review: A fresh set of eyes can offer valuable feedback to enhance clarity and cogency.
• Solidify: Ensure that your finalized thesis seamlessly ties together the various threads of your essay.

Tips for Writing a Thesis Statement for a College Essay

• Maintain Clarity: Dive straight into your point. Avoid unnecessary detours.
• Stay Away from Clichés: College essays thrive on original thought. Ensure your thesis isn’t a regurgitated idea.
• Be Bold: Use assertive language. Steer clear of phrases like “I feel” or “It might.”
• Narrow It Down: Broad statements dilute impact. “The effects of climate change on coastal cities” is more potent than “Climate change affects the world.”
• Stay Adaptable: Your essay might evolve, and that’s okay. Adjust your thesis accordingly.
• Hone the Skill: Practice drafting thesis statements even outside of assignments. It’s a craft that gets sharper with use.
• Echo in Conclusion: Your essay should come full circle, reiterating the essence of your thesis in the conclusion.
• Avoid Overcomplicated Terms: While scholarly, your essay should be readable. Don’t overwhelm with jargon.
• Stick to the Prompt: Ensure your thesis remains anchored to the essay prompt, offering a clear and direct response.
• Reflect Depth: Your thesis, though concise, should hint at the depth and complexity of your exploration.

By adhering to these guidelines and tailoring them to the specific demands of each essay, you’ll enhance the quality and effectiveness of your college essays.

Text prompt

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Write a College Essay Thesis Statement on the impact of social media on youth.

Create a College Essay Thesis Statement about the importance of sustainable development.

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Research Paper Menu

• 1. Overview
• 2. Finding Topic Ideas 

3. Creating a Thesis Statement & Outline

• 4. Choosing Appropriate Resources
• 5. Using Butte College Library Resources
• 6. Scholarly Journals
• 7. Online Search Techniques
• 8. Taking Notes and Documenting Sources
• 9. Evaluation of Resources
• 10. Citation and Plagiarism

I.What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement is usually a sentence that states your argument to the reader. It usually appears in the first paragraph of an essay.

II. Why do I need to write a thesis statement for a paper?

Your thesis statement states what you will discuss in your essay. Not only does it define the scope and focus of your essay, it also tells your reader what to expect from the essay.

A thesis statement can be very helpful in constructing the outline of your essay.

Also, your instructor may require a thesis statement for your paper.

III. How do I create a thesis statement?

A thesis statement is not a statement of fact. It is an assertive statement that states your claims and that you can prove with evidence. It should be the product of research and your own critical thinking. There are different ways and different approaches to write a thesis statement. Here are some steps you can try to create a thesis statement:

1. Start out with the main topic and focus of your essay.

Example: youth gangs + prevention and intervention programs

2. Make a claim or argument in one sentence.

Example: Prevention and intervention programs can stop youth gang activities.

3. Revise the sentence by using specific terms.

Example: Early prevention programs in schools are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement.

4. Further revise the sentence to cover the scope of your essay and make a strong statement.

Example: Among various prevention and intervention efforts that have been made to deal with the rapid growth of youth gangs, early school-based prevention programs are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement.

IV. Can I revise the thesis statement in the writing process?

Sure. In fact, you should keep the thesis statement flexible and revise it as needed. In the process of researching and writing, you may find new information that falls outside the scope of your original plan and want to incorporate it into your paper. Or you probably understand your thoughts more and shift the focus of your paper. Then you will need to revise your thesis statement while you are writing the paper.

V. Why do I need to make an outline when I already have a thesis statement?

An outline is the "road map" of your essay in which you list the arguments and subtopics in a logical order. A good outline is an important element in writing a good paper. An outline helps to target your research areas, keep you within the scope without going off-track, and it can also help to keep your argument in good order when writing the essay.

VI. How do I make an outline?

You list all the major topics and subtopics with key points that support them. Put similar topics and points together and arrange them in a logical order.

Include an Introduction , a Body , and a Conclusion in your outline. You can make an outline in a list format or a chart format .

Next Chapter: 4. Choosing Appropriate Resources

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Types of Outlines and Samples

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Alphanumeric Outlines

This is the most common type of outline and usually instantly recognizable to most people. The formatting follows these characters, in this order:

• Roman Numerals
• Capitalized Letters
• Arabic Numerals
• Lowercase Letters

If the outline needs to subdivide beyond these divisions, use Arabic numerals inside parentheses and then lowercase letters inside parentheses. Select the "Sample Outlines" PDF in the Media Box above to download the sample of this outline.

The sample PDF in the Media Box above is an example of an outline that a student might create before writing an essay. In order to organize her thoughts and make sure that she has not forgotten any key points that she wants to address, she creates the outline as a framework for her essay.

What is the assignment?

Your instructor asks the class to write an expository (explanatory) essay on the typical steps a high school student would follow in order to apply to college.

What is the purpose of this essay?

To explain the process for applying to college

Who is the intended audience for this essay?

High school students intending to apply to college and their parents

What is the essay's thesis statement?

When applying to college, a student follows a certain process which includes choosing the right schools and preparing the application materials.

Full Sentence Outlines

The full sentence outline format is essentially the same as the Alphanumeric outline. The main difference (as the title suggests) is that full sentences are required at each level of the outline. This outline is most often used when preparing a traditional essay. Select the "Sample Outlines" PDF in the Media Box above to download the sample of this outline.

Decimal Outlines

The decimal outline is similar in format to the alphanumeric outline. The added benefit is a system of decimal notation that clearly shows how every level of the outline relates to the larger whole. Select the "Sample Outlines" PDF in the Media Box above to download the sample of this outline.

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Composing A College-Level Thesis Outline: A Step-By-Step Guide

When writing a college thesis paper, students need to make an outline. Many of the best writers in the world use outlines because they help to organize the writers thoughts and ideas. With a good outline, the student can make sure that they create a cohesive logical argument. In addition, it is much easier to modify the order of the argument in an outline. It also helps students to sort their quotes and data according to the part of the thesis paper that it will appear in.

Begin With a Thesis Statement

The first thing that students should create is a thesis statement. This normally spans just one or two sentences. Within the thesis, the student sums up the entirety of their argument. When they begin to write the document, the thesis statement will be included in the middle or the end of the first paragraph.

Figure Out the Introduction and the Conclusion

Although it seems counterintuitive, the conclusion is actually one of the first things that the student should write. If the student has already created their introduction and the conclusion, they will know exactly where their argument begins and how it will end. This will allow the student to easily construct the rest of the essay because they know where they should end up.

Sort Through Research Notes

As the student does their research, they should make sure to list the bibliographical information from each source. In addition, they should start to figure out where they will include each piece of research in their writing. The best research papers are thoroughly backed by data and relevant sources. As the student creates their outline, they should take notes about which pieces of information they plan on using to support each paragraph.

Design Topic Sentences

In each of the paragraphs, the student will need to create a topic sentence. This serves as a mini-thesis and is normally included toward the beginning of the paragraph. Once the topic sentence is created, the student can use one to three pieces of research to support what they have said. In the outline, the student will probably just write out the topic sentence and take notes on the pieces of research that they will use. Later on, the student can connect all of this information as they write the actual research paper. If the outline is well-made, the student will have an easy time actually writing out their essay.

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