A Writing Guide
Thesis statements are part of all good academic writing. This guide focuses on a persuasive argument. For more on thesis statements and other writing style tricks, browse this playlist. We highly recommend watching the Persuasive Thesis video as a companion to this guide, available here:
In some courses, you will be asked to create a research question. Once you have conducted research and found information to answer the question, you will create a thesis statement. It is important to create this thesis from research rather than finding evidence to support your existing opinion. In other words: ask a question, research it, and make a thesis from there.
The following examples examine thesis statements related to Dying with Dignity laws. Each statement is analyzed to illustrate the components of an effective thesis and to highlight areas for improvement.
Physician-assisted suicide gives patients the right to end their lives with dignity.
This thesis needs improvement because it’s opinion-based. It tells the reader the paper will be about an idea/concept without any further information or support. Additionally, it is not clear what the argument will be, because this is an informative or expository thesis.
Dying with dignity laws should be used in terminal cases because it provides dignity to the patient.
This thesis statement is better than the first one because a clear argument is being presented. However, the reasons why this argument is valid are not clear. There is still an opinion being stated after the argument. It would be hard to research and support what classifies as “dignity.”
Dying with Dignity laws should apply to terminally ill patients because they promote the patient's ability to have control over their care, cut down on the number of patient suicides, and allow the patient relief from debilitating pain and discomfort.
This thesis is strong because it provides a clear argument and is supported by three researchable or supportable reasons. Additionally, it serves as a road map for the paper. The three body paragraphs (one for each) will support each reason listed in the thesis.
Key Takeaway
A strong thesis statement provides focus and direction throughout the writing process. If you become stuck while writing, revisit your thesis and ask whether it is clear, specific, and debatable.
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