How To Write A Thesis Statement For A Definition Essay: Tips And Examples

Writing essays can be a daunting task. Writers often ask themselves: What do I write about? How long should my paper be? Does my essay have to be in a specific format? What on earth should I write about?

Step 1: Brainstorming

• Think about what you are passionate about. Writing an essay is a thousand times easier if you write about something that is actually relevant to your life.
• Make a Venn diagram, T-chart, bulleted list, bubble diagram, or any type of sketch or outline that works for you.

Step 2: Choose a Topic

• Now that you have a list/chart with multiple ideas, it’s time to choose a topic. This subject will be the basis for your thesis statement.
• Look over your brainstorming lists/charts. Which are your favorites? Which ideas do you think you will have the most to write about?

Step 3: Consider Your Thesis

• A thesis statement is the point that you are trying to make in your paper. It should be:
• logical
• straightforward
• precise
• unique
• Often, a thesis statement will answer the question: What is the point I am trying to make to my readers?

Before you begin, here are a few examples to get your brain pumping:

For literary writing:

*Frankenstein’s monster was the result of Mary Shelley’s deeply entrenched fear of death and loss, based on her tragic life experiences.

For current event/news:

*Based on the disastrous results of the pollution in Rio de Janeiro, new laws need to be enacted to clean and purify the water before the 2016 Olympic Games.

For history/unsolved mystery:

*The suspicious circumstances surrounding the witness of JFK’s assassination must lead investigators to attempt further to track down the infamous “Babushka Lady”.

For argument/opinion:

*As a result of not being compensated for their athletics, college athletes are wasting their scholarships and squandering their chances of proper education.

Step 4: Write Your Thesis!

• Base this on the qualities listed in step 3.
• Logic: Is my argument fallacious? Would my point make sense to the majority of readers?
• Straightforwardness: A thesis should generally be just one sentence long. Make it to the point.
• Preciseness: Is your point about a day in history, or two weeks? Are you writing based on one textbook or many? Do you have all the information needed to make an informed argument? Get all of your information first.
• Uniqueness: No one wants to hear the argument about legalizing marijuana anymore. Come up with a new spin on your topic. Think about current events, if applicable. These always hold gems for creative ideas.