What makes a good thesis statement?

The short answer

A good thesis is specific, arguable, and previewable—it states your position and hints at how you will support it. It answers the prompt and guides every paragraph.

Strategies that work

• Avoid mere facts or questions as the final thesis.
• Make a claim someone could reasonably disagree with.
• Match scope to paper length—narrow for short essays.
• Place it early, usually end of introduction.
• Check each body paragraph supports the thesis directly.

Mistakes to avoid

• Thesis that lists topics without taking a position.
• Changing thesis mid-essay without revising body.
• Too broad: “Climate change is important.”

Put it into practice this week

• Write three thesis versions and pick the most precise.
• Ask a peer if they can predict your body sections from it.
• Revise thesis after outlining if evidence shifted your view.