More points to consider:
A thesis statement for an academic essay is more than a statement of fact; it is an arguable claim or the
writer’s position on the topic, which is usually a direct response the question posed by the assignment.
The following statements are NOT effective thesis statements. Compare them to the ones in the table.
There are many forms of American jazz. (Expository: General fact, not claim.)
The museum has a new exhibit. (Narrative: General fact, lacks dominant impression or lesson of narrative.)
Alcoholism has many causes. (Research: Fact, too broad, not a claim.)
I agree with the author’s opinion. (Response: Too general, lacks essay writer’s claim.)
Type of
assignment
Qualities of thesis statement Examples
Expository or
analytical
essay
presents the main point or
topic
for subjective essays, includes
an assertion or argument
may include key supporting
points
Objective: These three most popular forms of American
jazz have both shared and distinctive elements that
comprise standard compositions.
Subjective: Since jazz is an original American art form,
its unique musical elements are most accurately described
in terms of its historical-sociological development.
Personal
essay
presents the main point or
topic
for subjective essays, includes
the essay writer’s dominant
impression or opinion, or the
significance of the topic
may include key supporting
points
Objective: The local museum of art has arranged its
collection of photographic pieces in both thematic and
chronological order.
Subjective: Although we anticipated our class trip to the
unexpected challenges, surprising exasperations, and
unfortunate personal tensions.
Reaction or
response
presents a critique of, or
(dis)agreement with, a text
Even after reading Solomon’s article several times, it was
his lack of authoritative evidence, as well as his own weak
the draft.
Research
paper
objective: gives a brief and
balanced view that is the
summary of the essay writer’s
research
subjective: in general terms,
states the main conclusions of
the writer, which resulted
from his/her analysis of the
research
Objective: Research into the causes of alcoholism
emphasizes both sides of the nature and nurture debate,
which addresses the genetic factors as well as personal
Subjective: Although some researchers have concluded
that genetic factors are primarily to blame for the disease
of alcoholism, there is much stronger evidence to the
contrary that proves that environmental factors are more
likely the cause.
Other?
Always check your assignment sheet and ask your instructor to clarify these requirements. You can find
more examples on the Student Hub Matrix, linked to the Writing Center Website:
http://www.sbcc.edu/learningresources/website/documents/Matrix/WritingPapers.htm.