Argumentative prompt example: Technology helps students succeed in school. The prompt wants you to state whether you agree or disagree with this stance, and why. Analytical prompt example: Do video games influence the thoughts and actions of teenagers? The prompt wants you to research both sides of this controversial topic and come up with an analysis. Expository prompt example: Why is a calorie deficit diet plan effective for weight loss? The prompt wants you to go into detail on a specific topic.
The prompt “Genetically-modified foods provide an essential service to society” could be changed to “Do genetically-modified foods provide an essential service to society?” The prompt “Many people are divided over the advantages and disadvantages of wearing masks” could be adjusted to “What are the pros and cons of wearing masks?”
Example: GMOs provide a high volume of delicious, long-lasting food, making them an essential service to society. Example: Although politicians debate the practicality of masks in a post-pandemic society, evidence suggests that regular masking helps prevent the transmission of harmful illnesses. Remember—your thesis is a work in progress! You’re welcome to tweak, adjust, and completely change your thesis so it accurately represents your research. If your professor or teacher assigns an essay or paper with a pre-assigned topic, you might not have to do as much research.
Bad thesis: Pollution is harmful. Better thesis: Pollution risks harming millions of people through the spread of toxins in the air and waterways.
Bad thesis: Pineapple is a pizza topping. Better thesis: Pineapple’s sweet flavor profile makes it an unsavory choice as a pizza topping.
Bad thesis: Drunk driving is bad. Better thesis: Alcohol impairs a person’s mental functions, making it difficult and dangerous for them to drive a vehicle.
Bad thesis: Twitter is good and bad. Better thesis: Twitter offers greater visibility to important issues at the risk of imparting a heavy bias.
Bad thesis: The rise of technology has pros and cons. Better thesis: The rise of technology improves digital literacy, but limits opportunities for in-person interactions.
Bad thesis: The 1970s served as a turning point for women’s rights, LGBT rights, and environmental awareness. Better thesis: The 1970s launched a new era for women’s rights that has continued on into the 21st century.
Eliminate passive verbs like “is” or “was”—they don’t paint a very clear picture for your reader.
A list format works well for expository thesis statements! List out the different topics you’ll be discussing, and then dedicate different sections of your paper to each point.
