By AssignmentHelpKit Editorial Team, reviewed by subject experts · · 5 min read
A thesis statement is the one or two sentences that tell your reader what your essay argues. Get it right and the rest of the essay is much easier to plan and to mark.
The simple formula
Topic + your position + your main reasons
Universities should limit smartphone use in lectures because phones reduce concentration, notifications disrupt other students and handwritten notes improve recall.
Each reason becomes a body section. That's why a good thesis also works as a plan. Try our free thesis statement generator to build one from your own topic.
Examples by essay type
- Argumentative: Although remote work saves money, companies should keep some office days because collaboration, mentoring and culture suffer without them.
- Analytical: An analysis of Tesco's pricing strategy shows that it competes on value rather than price, through its loyalty scheme, own-brand ranges and targeted promotions.
- Expository: Climate migration can be understood by examining how rising sea levels, crop failure and extreme heat push people to move.
- Compare and contrast: While both the UK and Australia fund universities through student loans, Australia's income-linked repayments make higher education more accessible.
Where does it go?
Usually at the end of your introduction. Our guide on how to write an assignment introduction shows the four sentences that lead up to it.
Five common mistakes
- Stating a fact. "Obesity is rising in the UK" can't be argued. Say what should be done or why it matters.
- Being too broad. "Technology changes society" could be a book. Narrow it to a group, place or time.
- Announcing instead of arguing. "This essay will discuss..." tells the reader nothing about your view.
- Listing too many reasons. Two or three is enough for most essays.
- Not matching the essay. If your argument changes while writing, update the thesis before you submit.
Quick checklist
- Could someone reasonably disagree with it?
- Does it answer the exact question in the brief?
- Does each reason have its own section in the essay?
- Is it one or two sentences?
Want feedback on your argument? Our essay writing help experts can review your thesis and plan.