Thesis writing tips: how to present your arguments


Writing a thesis is all about creating and supporting an argument. When the time comes to write the argument, there are several steps you can take to keep your argument focused and managed. Presenting the arguments in a thesis is an artform and it can be learned and perfected.


Craft a Strong and Interesting Introduction

Crafting a thesis begins with an attention-getting introduction. Since you are writing an argumentative piece, you will want to begin with a fact, statistic, or quote that supports your argument. Once you present the first sentence, then you will need to explain it in your own words. This will get the reader really interested in what you have to say. After you have explained the first sentence - your hook, then you should present some background information and move smoothly into the claim for your thesis. The claim should be the answer to a yes or no question, but it should be written with complexity.


Examples and Explanations are the Keys to Success

As soon as the claim is crafted, the rest of the body of the paper should be presented. Each paragraph should have a smartly written topic sentence that refers back to the original claim of the thesis. Once the topic sentence is given, you should support it with facts and examples. As you move between the different supporting examples and facts, you should explain the facts that you are using to support your argument. Without the explanation of the examples, your facts and examples will not have meaning to the reader. At the end of the body paragraph you write, you should end with a link back to the original claim. This link will help you continue the support for your argument.


Strong Sources Support Strong Arguments

Inside of each body paragraph, the facts and examples need to come from valid, authentic sources. You will need to provide citations for those sources to back up your arguments, too. If the sources are not given, you will be accused of plagiarism. If the facts and examples are from weak sources, then your argument will not be as effective as it would be with solid sources. Some of the best sources come from the government, educational institutions, and professional journals. Those body paragraphs should be repeated several times and the more information you can present, the more support you will have for your argument.