You'll want a simple sentence you can write on a sticky note and post on the corner of the computer monitor while you tap away at the keyboard. Keep your working thesis straightforward — it's only meant to keep you from straying into the pros and cons of Mongolian woolly slippers. Here's the magic working thesis equation:
Subject + Attitude = Thesis
Your topic and your opinion on that topic — that's it. The secret of the working thesis is that you're allowed to change your mind (about either your subject or your attitude) at any point while writing. Just whip off that first sticky note and slap on your new, improved, topic-and-opinion combo with fries.
Every "A+" thesis starts with a specific topic. Here are some guidelines to what "specific" means:
Every "A+" thesis starts with a specific topic. Here are some guidelines to what "specific" means:
- If your instructor has told you what to write about, make sure to do just that. Sorry, but it's true — if your teacher wants to see something specific, this is not the time to get creative and imaginative.
- If the assignment has been left up to you, write about something you're deeply passionate or what to learn more about[1]
If you haven't written your essay yet, go away, write a rough draft, and then come back later. Fact is, most of us don't know what we want to say until we start writing. Pick a specific topic, then decide your purpose: What exactly do you want to say about it? Picture your best obnoxious friend asking, "Why are you telling me this?"
Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary. [2]
Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary. [2]
[1] Cliff Notes. www.cliffsnotes.com/WileyCDA/Section
[2] The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/thesis.html
