English Composition

English Composition Study Guide

A strong thesis statement is based off the prompt. Often times precise language from the prompt is used within the thesis statement, although it is not required. The essential part of the thesis is that it is debatable. The word thesis should not be confused with opinion. An opinion does not require explanation or support. A thesis requires that the writer provide evidence that explains and supports the assertions being made. The task, as a writer, is to choose a thesis that can be supported with ample evidence and argued persuasively. Since the thesis statement drives the essay, it is important that it is well written. The author’s stance should be clear, and so should the reasons why the author feels that way. Strong language and vocabulary should be used, and the thesis statement should be as concise as possible. Thesis statements have a tendency to get wordy, so writers should avoid unnecessary language like “in this essay you will see…” or “the three reasons why I believe…”. The thesis statement should be one of the strongest sentences in the writing.

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