Morehouse Admissions Blog

What is a Thesis Statement?

Written by Morehouse College Writing Center | May 29, 2025 3:50:43 PM

In a world dominated by digital communication, writing remains a fundamental skill that shapes our personal and professional lives.

What is a Thesis statement?

A Thesis statement/sentence is the main point of an essay. It is usually expressed in a single sentence. A thesis statement identifies the topic being discussed, includes the points discussed in the paper, and is written for a specific audience. 

An effective thesis statement should accomplish three goals:

(1) Introduce your topic.

(2) Reveal what your essay is about.

(3) State the main point you will write about the topic.

 

Writing an effective Thesis statement.

  1. An effective thesis statement makes an assertion---it takes/states your position, express your viewpoint, or suggests your approach toward the topic.
  2. An effective THESIS is specific.
  3. Focus on one central/main point.
  4. Offers an original perspective on your topic.
  5. Avoid making an announcement.
  6. Provides a preview of the development and organization of your essay.

Developing your Thesis Statement

  1. Expect your thesis statement/sentence to evolve.
  2. Expect to research to revise your
  3. Expect to revise your thesis as you draft and revise/write your essay.

Example: Writing is a psycholinguistic process that develops critical thinking skills, increases self-confidence, and contributes to academic success.

Write a Thesis statement/sentence or each of the following topics:

  1. “A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste.”
  2. “I Have Met the Enemy; He is I.”
  3. “If you control the way a man thinks, you don’t have to worry how he will behave.”
  4. “Africa is the origin of everyone… of everything.”
  5. “All Art is Propaganda.”