Thesis papers have a simple set-up or design that applies to essays of any length. They open with a thesis argument or thesis statement, and then go through the points in the argument in order, providing supports for each point. They end with a brief summary of the effectiveness of the thesis argument.
Depending on the requirements of the assignment, thesis statements can put forth two or more arguments to defend. The thesis statement should be straightforward and easy to identify; the final sentence of the introductory paragraph is often an effective location for the thesis statement.
Body Paragraphs of a Thesis Paper
Each body paragraph should be directly related to the argument in the thesis statement. Thesis papers are about organization and a coherent defense of an idea or claim. Each claim or topic area in the thesis statement MUST be addressed by a subsequent defense paragraph.
In a typical thesis paper, three claims made in the thesis statement will turn into the three segments of the paper’s main body; each of the three claims should ideally receive three textual supports.
Use transition sentences to guide the flow of ideas from the end of one thesis defense to the beginning of the next. This is easier if the claims in the thesis statement are related.
The final paragraph(s) should sum up why the argument set forth in the thesis statement is correct and should briefly recap the main idea of the paper.
Example of a Thesis Paper Outline
To get a better idea of how this should be set up, follow along with the outline below. A simplistic topic will be used to illustrate the main concepts.
“Why I Should Get an A in Physics”
I. Introduction – An interesting few sentences on why this topic matters, ending with the thesis statement: “I should get an A in Physics because of my consistent hard work, my flawless attendance record, and my high test scores.”
II. Arguments regarding consistent hard work (Use three examples, quotes, sources, etc. that directly support this single portion of the thesis statement.)
a. Assignments always turned in on time
b. Always take the lead in lab demonstrations
c. Tutor other class members during study hall
III. Arguments regarding flawless attendance
a. No recorded tardy days, zero absences
b. Attended every optional study session
c. Often stayed late to ask questions
IV. Arguments regarding high test scores
a. Consistent above average test scores
b. One score highest of the class
c. One correct answer everyone else missed
V. Summary and conclusion – restate argument referencing defenses in above paragraphs: “Overall, I believe that the exceptional efforts I have taken to succeed in this Physics class deserve a high grade. As the above arguments demonstrate, the hard work, solid attendance, and high test scores I have in this class merit an A.”
Final Thesis Tips
Keep in mind that the longer the paper, the more in-depth and well-supported each support of the individual thesis sections should be. Sometimes, there can be a paragraph or more elaborating on each of the three defenses per section.
By using these tips, a thesis paper should no longer be a challenge – it should be welcomed for its simple structure and straightforward design!
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