Essay Sample Introduction
A thesis statement can simply be a sentence that presents the central topic of the paper. Starting with this basic statement results in a straightforward essay that summarizes aspects of the subject matter. A more effective thesis statement reflects a specific viewpoint or opinion about the subject matter; the essay, in turn, represents the detailed argument that supports this viewpoint. Most teachers prefer this kind of essay; they are interested in your own perspective, rather than a summary of factual information. The more original the thesis statement, the more original—and impressive—your essay will be.
Here are some sample topics and the effective thesis statements that might emerge from them. Topics | Thesis Statements | American Literature of the 1920s | Most American literature of the 1920s depicts a growing anxiety regarding the dehumanizing effects of industrialization. | Modern Psychological Theories and Treatments | Although dreams play a central role in both Freudian and Jungian theory, there are crucial differences in the ways in which dreams are interpreted. | The Cold War | The foreign policy of the United States during the Cold War indirectly served to escalate domestic problems on American soil. |
In order for a thesis statement to be effective, it should be specific and reflect your own ideas. It should: * Be specific. An effective thesis statement is not too broad or general; instead, it should say something very specific about your topic. By being very specific, a thesis statement ensures that the essay remains focused and does not veer off into unrelated territory that distracts the reader. * Reflect your own ideas. Most professors will be more impressed when you express your own thoughts and ideas rather than regurgitating someone else’s. A more effective thesis statement will therefore be original and reflect your own outlook on the subject. Make certain the thesis is phrased entirely in your own words. * Be something
Here are some sample topics and the effective thesis statements that might emerge from them. Topics | Thesis Statements | American Literature of the 1920s | Most American literature of the 1920s depicts a growing anxiety regarding the dehumanizing effects of industrialization. | Modern Psychological Theories and Treatments | Although dreams play a central role in both Freudian and Jungian theory, there are crucial differences in the ways in which dreams are interpreted. | The Cold War | The foreign policy of the United States during the Cold War indirectly served to escalate domestic problems on American soil. |
In order for a thesis statement to be effective, it should be specific and reflect your own ideas. It should: * Be specific. An effective thesis statement is not too broad or general; instead, it should say something very specific about your topic. By being very specific, a thesis statement ensures that the essay remains focused and does not veer off into unrelated territory that distracts the reader. * Reflect your own ideas. Most professors will be more impressed when you express your own thoughts and ideas rather than regurgitating someone else’s. A more effective thesis statement will therefore be original and reflect your own outlook on the subject. Make certain the thesis is phrased entirely in your own words. * Be something