Thesis Statement Creator:

This page was created over 20 years ago and works only under quirks mode in most browsers. An updated version of the original Thesis Creator is now available: Thesis Creator (https://johnmcgarvey.com/ThesisCreator)

Directions: This web page explains the different parts to a thesis statement and helps you create your own. You can click on the example button in each section to see an example of a thesis statement.

Question: Write the the question you have been assigned or the prompt you are going to answer with your essay in the box below.


1. The Topic

The “topic” of your essay is the general category your essay is about. Either write the topic your teacher has assigned or the topic you have chosen in the space provided. What do you have an opinion about?   What are some things that interest you? Topics are just general categories--school, fishing, parenting, hunting, cars, women’s rights, racial issues, the law, etc...

Type the topic of your essay in the box below.



2. The Position

What is one thing about your topic that you believe to be true, and that you wish to argue?
You may already have a “position” in mind, or you may just have a general topic you know you wish to work with. 


If you do not yet have a position, making a cluster or a map with  your topic in the center is a good way to help yourself find a position. Another good way is to begin a free write, “I’m supposed to write an essay about____________. . .”  and see where it takes you.
However you get there, write a short statement describing your position in the space below.


Write your position in the space below.


3. The Qualification

Is what you say always true always? 
Are there exceptions? 
Are there good reasons why your position may have a down side?
How can you make your position have a reality check?
What general reasons why your position may have problems can you admit up front?
To make absolute statements usually causes your essay’s thesis to seem foolishly simplistic.  Get real!.
Here’s a trick: begin your qualification with a word like “although” or “It is true that. . .” Don’t worry if it’s not a complete sentence.
Program’s Example Qualification: Although schools of over a thousand students have flourished in America. . .
Write your qualification in the space below.

 


4. The Reason

In general why do you believe your position to be correct in spite of your qualification?
What is the over all good to be gained by agreeing with your position?
This is a general statement; your specific reasons will follow in the body of your essay.

Write your reason in the space below.

 


5. Put them all together.

In one or two sentences, present your thesis, including a qualification, a reason, and a position.
The classic, traditional way of combining is to first present your qualification.  This immediately demonstrates your interest in accuracy. Then present your general reason which demonstrates your thinking process, and finally the punch line--your position.

Click on the My Thesis button to see your thesis statement.


Edit your thesis statement in the box above so that the parts of the thesis flow smoothly, check for proper grammar and standard spelling. When you are satsified with your thesis statement click on the final draft button.

In the pop-up window, you can print your thesis or save a copy to your computer by going under the file menu.