expert writing thesis

Think of yourself as a member of a jury, listening to a lawyer who is presenting an opening argument. You'll want to know very soon whether the lawyer believes the accused to be guilty or not guilty, and how the lawyer plans to convince you. Readers of academic essays are like jury members: before they have read too far, they want to know what the essay argues as well as how the writer plans to make the argument. After reading your thesis statement, the reader should think, "This essay is going to try to convince me of something. I'm not convinced yet, but I'm interested to see how I might be."

An effective thesis cannot be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." A thesis is not a topic; nor is it a fact; nor is it an opinion. "Reasons for the fall of communism" is a topic. "Communism collapsed in Eastern Europe" is a fact known by educated people. "The fall of communism is the best thing that ever happened in Europe" is an opinion. (Superlatives like "the best" almost always lead to trouble. It's impossible to weigh every "thing" that ever happened in Europe. And what about the fall of Hitler? Couldn't that be "the best thing"?)

A good thesis has two parts. It should tell what you plan to argue, and it should "telegraph" how you plan to argue—that is, what particular support for your claim is going where in your essay.

Steps in Constructing a Thesis

First, analyze your primary sources.  Look for tension, interest, ambiguity, controversy, and/or complication. Does the author contradict himself or herself? Is a point made and later reversed? What are the deeper implications of the author's argument? Figuring out the why to one or more of these questions, or to related questions, will put you on the path to developing a working thesis. (Without the why, you probably have only come up with an observation—that there are, for instance, many different metaphors in such-and-such a poem—which is not a thesis.)

Once you have a working thesis, write it down.  There is nothing as frustrating as hitting on a great idea for a thesis, then forgetting it when you lose concentration. And by writing down your thesis you will be forced to think of it clearly, logically, and concisely. You probably will not be able to write out a final-draft version of your thesis the first time you try, but you'll get yourself on the right track by writing down what you have.

Keep your thesis prominent in your introduction.  A good, standard place for your thesis statement is at the end of an introductory paragraph, especially in shorter (5-15 page) essays. Readers are used to finding theses there, so they automatically pay more attention when they read the last sentence of your introduction. Although this is not required in all academic essays, it is a good rule of thumb.

Anticipate the counterarguments.  Once you have a working thesis, you should think about what might be said against it. This will help you to refine your thesis, and it will also make you think of the arguments that you'll need to refute later on in your essay. (Every argument has a counterargument. If yours doesn't, then it's not an argument—it may be a fact, or an opinion, but it is not an argument.)

This statement is on its way to being a thesis. However, it is too easy to imagine possible counterarguments. For example, a political observer might believe that Dukakis lost because he suffered from a "soft-on-crime" image. If you complicate your thesis by anticipating the counterargument, you'll strengthen your argument, as shown in the sentence below.

Some Caveats and Some Examples

A thesis is never a question.  Readers of academic essays expect to have questions discussed, explored, or even answered. A question ("Why did communism collapse in Eastern Europe?") is not an argument, and without an argument, a thesis is dead in the water.

A thesis is never a list.  "For political, economic, social and cultural reasons, communism collapsed in Eastern Europe" does a good job of "telegraphing" the reader what to expect in the essay—a section about political reasons, a section about economic reasons, a section about social reasons, and a section about cultural reasons. However, political, economic, social and cultural reasons are pretty much the only possible reasons why communism could collapse. This sentence lacks tension and doesn't advance an argument. Everyone knows that politics, economics, and culture are important.

A thesis should never be vague, combative or confrontational.  An ineffective thesis would be, "Communism collapsed in Eastern Europe because communism is evil." This is hard to argue (evil from whose perspective? what does evil mean?) and it is likely to mark you as moralistic and judgmental rather than rational and thorough. It also may spark a defensive reaction from readers sympathetic to communism. If readers strongly disagree with you right off the bat, they may stop reading.

An effective thesis has a definable, arguable claim.  "While cultural forces contributed to the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe, the disintegration of economies played the key role in driving its decline" is an effective thesis sentence that "telegraphs," so that the reader expects the essay to have a section about cultural forces and another about the disintegration of economies. This thesis makes a definite, arguable claim: that the disintegration of economies played a more important role than cultural forces in defeating communism in Eastern Europe. The reader would react to this statement by thinking, "Perhaps what the author says is true, but I am not convinced. I want to read further to see how the author argues this claim."

A thesis should be as clear and specific as possible.  Avoid overused, general terms and abstractions. For example, "Communism collapsed in Eastern Europe because of the ruling elite's inability to address the economic concerns of the people" is more powerful than "Communism collapsed due to societal discontent."

Copyright 1999, Maxine Rodburg and The Tutors of the Writing Center at Harvard University

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How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement: 4 Steps + Examples

What’s Covered:

What is the purpose of a thesis statement, writing a good thesis statement: 4 steps, common pitfalls to avoid, where to get your essay edited for free.

When you set out to write an essay, there has to be some kind of point to it, right? Otherwise, your essay would just be a big jumble of word salad that makes absolutely no sense. An essay needs a central point that ties into everything else. That main point is called a thesis statement, and it’s the core of any essay or research paper.

You may hear about Master degree candidates writing a thesis, and that is an entire paper–not to be confused with the thesis statement, which is typically one sentence that contains your paper’s focus. 

Read on to learn more about thesis statements and how to write them. We’ve also included some solid examples for you to reference.

Typically the last sentence of your introductory paragraph, the thesis statement serves as the roadmap for your essay. When your reader gets to the thesis statement, they should have a clear outline of your main point, as well as the information you’ll be presenting in order to either prove or support your point. 

The thesis statement should not be confused for a topic sentence , which is the first sentence of every paragraph in your essay. If you need help writing topic sentences, numerous resources are available. Topic sentences should go along with your thesis statement, though.

Since the thesis statement is the most important sentence of your entire essay or paper, it’s imperative that you get this part right. Otherwise, your paper will not have a good flow and will seem disjointed. That’s why it’s vital not to rush through developing one. It’s a methodical process with steps that you need to follow in order to create the best thesis statement possible.

Step 1: Decide what kind of paper you’re writing

When you’re assigned an essay, there are several different types you may get. Argumentative essays are designed to get the reader to agree with you on a topic. Informative or expository essays present information to the reader. Analytical essays offer up a point and then expand on it by analyzing relevant information. Thesis statements can look and sound different based on the type of paper you’re writing. For example:

• Argumentative: The United States needs a viable third political party to decrease bipartisanship, increase options, and help reduce corruption in government.
• Informative: The Libertarian party has thrown off elections before by gaining enough support in states to get on the ballot and by taking away crucial votes from candidates.
• Analytical: An analysis of past presidential elections shows that while third party votes may have been the minority, they did affect the outcome of the elections in 2020, 2016, and beyond.

Step 2: Figure out what point you want to make

Once you know what type of paper you’re writing, you then need to figure out the point you want to make with your thesis statement, and subsequently, your paper. In other words, you need to decide to answer a question about something, such as:

• What impact did reality TV have on American society?
• How has the musical Hamilton affected perception of American history?
• Why do I want to major in [chosen major here]?

If you have an argumentative essay, then you will be writing about an opinion. To make it easier, you may want to choose an opinion that you feel passionate about so that you’re writing about something that interests you. For example, if you have an interest in preserving the environment, you may want to choose a topic that relates to that. 

If you’re writing your college essay and they ask why you want to attend that school, you may want to have a main point and back it up with information, something along the lines of:

“Attending Harvard University would benefit me both academically and professionally, as it would give me a strong knowledge base upon which to build my career, develop my network, and hopefully give me an advantage in my chosen field.”

Step 3: Determine what information you’ll use to back up your point

Once you have the point you want to make, you need to figure out how you plan to back it up throughout the rest of your essay. Without this information, it will be hard to either prove or argue the main point of your thesis statement. If you decide to write about the Hamilton example, you may decide to address any falsehoods that the writer put into the musical, such as:

“The musical Hamilton, while accurate in many ways, leaves out key parts of American history, presents a nationalist view of founding fathers, and downplays the racism of the times.”

Once you’ve written your initial working thesis statement, you’ll then need to get information to back that up. For example, the musical completely leaves out Benjamin Franklin, portrays the founding fathers in a nationalist way that is too complimentary, and shows Hamilton as a staunch abolitionist despite the fact that his family likely did own slaves. 

Step 4: Revise and refine your thesis statement before you start writing

Read through your thesis statement several times before you begin to compose your full essay. You need to make sure the statement is ironclad, since it is the foundation of the entire paper. Edit it or have a peer review it for you to make sure everything makes sense and that you feel like you can truly write a paper on the topic. Once you’ve done that, you can then begin writing your paper.

When writing a thesis statement, there are some common pitfalls you should avoid so that your paper can be as solid as possible. Make sure you always edit the thesis statement before you do anything else. You also want to ensure that the thesis statement is clear and concise. Don’t make your reader hunt for your point. Finally, put your thesis statement at the end of the first paragraph and have your introduction flow toward that statement. Your reader will expect to find your statement in its traditional spot.

If you’re having trouble getting started, or need some guidance on your essay, there are tools available that can help you. CollegeVine offers a free peer essay review tool where one of your peers can read through your essay and provide you with valuable feedback. Getting essay feedback from a peer can help you wow your instructor or college admissions officer with an impactful essay that effectively illustrates your point.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

How To Write A Dissertation Or Thesis

8 straightforward steps to craft an a-grade dissertation.

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) Expert Reviewed By: Dr Eunice Rautenbach | June 2020

Writing a dissertation or thesis is not a simple task. It takes time, energy and a lot of will power to get you across the finish line. It’s not easy – but it doesn’t necessarily need to be a painful process. If you understand the big-picture process of how to write a dissertation or thesis, your research journey will be a lot smoother.  

In this post, I’m going to outline the big-picture process of how to write a high-quality dissertation or thesis, without losing your mind along the way. If you’re just starting your research, this post is perfect for you. Alternatively, if you’ve already submitted your proposal, this article which covers how to structure a dissertation might be more helpful.

How To Write A Dissertation: 8 Steps

• Clearly understand what a dissertation (or thesis) is
• Find a unique and valuable research topic
• Craft a convincing research proposal
• Write up a strong introduction chapter
• Review the existing literature and compile a literature review
• Design a rigorous research strategy and undertake your own research
• Present the findings of your research
• Draw a conclusion and discuss the implications

Step 1: Understand exactly what a dissertation is

This probably sounds like a no-brainer, but all too often, students come to us for help with their research and the underlying issue is that they don’t fully understand what a dissertation (or thesis) actually is.

So, what is a dissertation?

At its simplest, a dissertation or thesis is a formal piece of research , reflecting the standard research process . But what is the standard research process, you ask? The research process involves 4 key steps:

• Ask a very specific, well-articulated question (s) (your research topic)
• See what other researchers have said about it (if they’ve already answered it)
• If they haven’t answered it adequately, undertake your own data collection and analysis in a scientifically rigorous fashion
• Answer your original question(s), based on your analysis findings

In short, the research process is simply about asking and answering questions in a systematic fashion . This probably sounds pretty obvious, but people often think they’ve done “research”, when in fact what they have done is:

• Started with a vague, poorly articulated question
• Not taken the time to see what research has already been done regarding the question
• Collected data and opinions that support their gut and undertaken a flimsy analysis
• Drawn a shaky conclusion, based on that analysis

If you want to see the perfect example of this in action, look out for the next Facebook post where someone claims they’ve done “research”… All too often, people consider reading a few blog posts to constitute research. Its no surprise then that what they end up with is an opinion piece, not research. Okay, okay – I’ll climb off my soapbox now.

The key takeaway here is that a dissertation (or thesis) is a formal piece of research, reflecting the research process. It’s not an opinion piece , nor a place to push your agenda or try to convince someone of your position. Writing a good dissertation involves asking a question and taking a systematic, rigorous approach to answering it.

If you understand this and are comfortable leaving your opinions or preconceived ideas at the door, you’re already off to a good start!

Step 2: Find a unique, valuable research topic

As we saw, the first step of the research process is to ask a specific, well-articulated question. In other words, you need to find a research topic that asks a specific question or set of questions (these are called research questions ). Sounds easy enough, right? All you’ve got to do is identify a question or two and you’ve got a winning research topic. Well, not quite…

A good dissertation or thesis topic has a few important attributes. Specifically, a solid research topic should be:

Let’s take a closer look at these:

Attribute #1: Clear

Your research topic needs to be crystal clear about what you’re planning to research, what you want to know, and within what context. There shouldn’t be any ambiguity or vagueness about what you’ll research.

Here’s an example of a clearly articulated research topic:

An analysis of consumer-based factors influencing organisational trust in British low-cost online equity brokerage firms.

As you can see in the example, its crystal clear what will be analysed (factors impacting organisational trust), amongst who (consumers) and in what context (British low-cost equity brokerage firms, based online).

Need a helping hand?

Attribute #2:   Unique

Your research should be asking a question(s) that hasn’t been asked before, or that hasn’t been asked in a specific context (for example, in a specific country or industry).

For example, sticking organisational trust topic above, it’s quite likely that organisational trust factors in the UK have been investigated before, but the context (online low-cost equity brokerages) could make this research unique. Therefore, the context makes this research original.

One caveat when using context as the basis for originality – you need to have a good reason to suspect that your findings in this context might be different from the existing research – otherwise, there’s no reason to warrant researching it.

Attribute #3: Important

Simply asking a unique or original question is not enough – the question needs to create value. In other words, successfully answering your research questions should provide some value to the field of research or the industry. You can’t research something just to satisfy your curiosity. It needs to make some form of contribution either to research or industry.

For example, researching the factors influencing consumer trust would create value by enabling businesses to tailor their operations and marketing to leverage factors that promote trust. In other words, it would have a clear benefit to industry.

So, how do you go about finding a unique and valuable research topic? We explain that in detail in this video post – How To Find A Research Topic . Yeah, we’ve got you covered 😊

Step 3: Write a convincing research proposal

Once you’ve pinned down a high-quality research topic, the next step is to convince your university to let you research it. No matter how awesome you think your topic is, it still needs to get the rubber stamp before you can move forward with your research. The research proposal is the tool you’ll use for this job.

So, what’s in a research proposal?

The main “job” of a research proposal is to convince your university, advisor or committee that your research topic is worthy of approval. But convince them of what? Well, this varies from university to university, but generally, they want to see that:

• You have a clearly articulated, unique and important topic (this might sound familiar…)
• You’ve done some initial reading of the existing literature relevant to your topic (i.e. a literature review)
• You have a provisional plan in terms of how you will collect data and analyse it (i.e. a methodology)

At the proposal stage, it’s (generally) not expected that you’ve extensively reviewed the existing literature , but you will need to show that you’ve done enough reading to identify a clear gap for original (unique) research. Similarly, they generally don’t expect that you have a rock-solid research methodology mapped out, but you should have an idea of whether you’ll be undertaking qualitative or quantitative analysis , and how you’ll collect your data (we’ll discuss this in more detail later).

Long story short – don’t stress about having every detail of your research meticulously thought out at the proposal stage – this will develop as you progress through your research. However, you do need to show that you’ve “done your homework” and that your research is worthy of approval .

So, how do you go about crafting a high-quality, convincing proposal? We cover that in detail in this video post – How To Write A Top-Class Research Proposal . We’ve also got a video walkthrough of two proposal examples here .

Step 4: Craft a strong introduction chapter

Once your proposal’s been approved, its time to get writing your actual dissertation or thesis! The good news is that if you put the time into crafting a high-quality proposal, you’ve already got a head start on your first three chapters – introduction, literature review and methodology – as you can use your proposal as the basis for these.

Handy sidenote – our free dissertation & thesis template is a great way to speed up your dissertation writing journey.

What’s the introduction chapter all about?

The purpose of the introduction chapter is to set the scene for your research (dare I say, to introduce it…) so that the reader understands what you’ll be researching and why it’s important. In other words, it covers the same ground as the research proposal in that it justifies your research topic.

What goes into the introduction chapter?

This can vary slightly between universities and degrees, but generally, the introduction chapter will include the following:

• A brief background to the study, explaining the overall area of research
• A problem statement , explaining what the problem is with the current state of research (in other words, where the knowledge gap exists)
• Your research questions – in other words, the specific questions your study will seek to answer (based on the knowledge gap)
• The significance of your study – in other words, why it’s important and how its findings will be useful in the world

As you can see, this all about explaining the “what” and the “why” of your research (as opposed to the “how”). So, your introduction chapter is basically the salesman of your study, “selling” your research to the first-time reader and (hopefully) getting them interested to read more.

How do I write the introduction chapter, you ask? We cover that in detail in this post .

Step 5: Undertake an in-depth literature review

As I mentioned earlier, you’ll need to do some initial review of the literature in Steps 2 and 3 to find your research gap and craft a convincing research proposal – but that’s just scratching the surface. Once you reach the literature review stage of your dissertation or thesis, you need to dig a lot deeper into the existing research and write up a comprehensive literature review chapter.

What’s the literature review all about?

There are two main stages in the literature review process:

Literature Review Step 1: Reading up

The first stage is for you to deep dive into the existing literature (journal articles, textbook chapters, industry reports, etc) to gain an in-depth understanding of the current state of research regarding your topic. While you don’t need to read every single article, you do need to ensure that you cover all literature that is related to your core research questions, and create a comprehensive catalogue of that literature , which you’ll use in the next step.

Reading and digesting all the relevant literature is a time consuming and intellectually demanding process. Many students underestimate just how much work goes into this step, so make sure that you allocate a good amount of time for this when planning out your research. Thankfully, there are ways to fast track the process – be sure to check out this article covering how to read journal articles quickly .

Literature Review Step 2: Writing up

Once you’ve worked through the literature and digested it all, you’ll need to write up your literature review chapter. Many students make the mistake of thinking that the literature review chapter is simply a summary of what other researchers have said. While this is partly true, a literature review is much more than just a summary. To pull off a good literature review chapter, you’ll need to achieve at least 3 things:

• You need to synthesise the existing research , not just summarise it. In other words, you need to show how different pieces of theory fit together, what’s agreed on by researchers, what’s not.
• You need to highlight a research gap that your research is going to fill. In other words, you’ve got to outline the problem so that your research topic can provide a solution.
• You need to use the existing research to inform your methodology and approach to your own research design. For example, you might use questions or Likert scales from previous studies in your your own survey design .

As you can see, a good literature review is more than just a summary of the published research. It’s the foundation on which your own research is built, so it deserves a lot of love and attention. Take the time to craft a comprehensive literature review with a suitable structure .

But, how do I actually write the literature review chapter, you ask? We cover that in detail in this video post .

Step 6: Carry out your own research

Once you’ve completed your literature review and have a sound understanding of the existing research, its time to develop your own research (finally!). You’ll design this research specifically so that you can find the answers to your unique research question.

There are two steps here – designing your research strategy and executing on it:

1 – Design your research strategy

The first step is to design your research strategy and craft a methodology chapter . I won’t get into the technicalities of the methodology chapter here, but in simple terms, this chapter is about explaining the “how” of your research. If you recall, the introduction and literature review chapters discussed the “what” and the “why”, so it makes sense that the next point to cover is the “how” –that’s what the methodology chapter is all about.

In this section, you’ll need to make firm decisions about your research design. This includes things like:

• Your research philosophy (e.g. positivism or interpretivism )
• Your overall methodology (e.g. qualitative , quantitative or mixed methods)
• Your data collection strategy (e.g. interviews , focus groups, surveys)
• Your data analysis strategy (e.g. content analysis , correlation analysis, regression)

If these words have got your head spinning, don’t worry! We’ll explain these in plain language in other posts. It’s not essential that you understand the intricacies of research design (yet!). The key takeaway here is that you’ll need to make decisions about how you’ll design your own research, and you’ll need to describe (and justify) your decisions in your methodology chapter.

2 – Execute: Collect and analyse your data

Once you’ve worked out your research design, you’ll put it into action and start collecting your data. This might mean undertaking interviews, hosting an online survey or any other data collection method. Data collection can take quite a bit of time (especially if you host in-person interviews), so be sure to factor sufficient time into your project plan for this. Oftentimes, things don’t go 100% to plan (for example, you don’t get as many survey responses as you hoped for), so bake a little extra time into your budget here.

Once you’ve collected your data, you’ll need to do some data preparation before you can sink your teeth into the analysis. For example:

• If you carry out interviews or focus groups, you’ll need to transcribe your audio data to text (i.e. a Word document).
• If you collect quantitative survey data, you’ll need to clean up your data and get it into the right format for whichever analysis software you use (for example, SPSS, R or STATA).

Once you’ve completed your data prep, you’ll undertake your analysis, using the techniques that you described in your methodology. Depending on what you find in your analysis, you might also do some additional forms of analysis that you hadn’t planned for. For example, you might see something in the data that raises new questions or that requires clarification with further analysis.

The type(s) of analysis that you’ll use depend entirely on the nature of your research and your research questions. For example:

• If your research if exploratory in nature, you’ll often use qualitative analysis techniques .
• If your research is confirmatory in nature, you’ll often use quantitative analysis techniques
• If your research involves a mix of both, you might use a mixed methods approach

Again, if these words have got your head spinning, don’t worry! We’ll explain these concepts and techniques in other posts. The key takeaway is simply that there’s no “one size fits all” for research design and methodology – it all depends on your topic, your research questions and your data. So, don’t be surprised if your study colleagues take a completely different approach to yours.

Step 7: Present your findings

Once you’ve completed your analysis, it’s time to present your findings (finally!). In a dissertation or thesis, you’ll typically present your findings in two chapters – the results chapter and the discussion chapter .

What’s the difference between the results chapter and the discussion chapter?

While these two chapters are similar, the results chapter generally just presents the processed data neatly and clearly without interpretation, while the discussion chapter explains the story the data are telling  – in other words, it provides your interpretation of the results.

For example, if you were researching the factors that influence consumer trust, you might have used a quantitative approach to identify the relationship between potential factors (e.g. perceived integrity and competence of the organisation) and consumer trust. In this case:

• Your results chapter would just present the results of the statistical tests. For example, correlation results or differences between groups. In other words, the processed numbers.
• Your discussion chapter would explain what the numbers mean in relation to your research question(s). For example, Factor 1 has a weak relationship with consumer trust, while Factor 2 has a strong relationship.

Depending on the university and degree, these two chapters (results and discussion) are sometimes merged into one , so be sure to check with your institution what their preference is. Regardless of the chapter structure, this section is about presenting the findings of your research in a clear, easy to understand fashion.

Importantly, your discussion here needs to link back to your research questions (which you outlined in the introduction or literature review chapter). In other words, it needs to answer the key questions you asked (or at least attempt to answer them).

For example, if we look at the sample research topic:

In this case, the discussion section would clearly outline which factors seem to have a noteworthy influence on organisational trust. By doing so, they are answering the overarching question and fulfilling the purpose of the research .

For more information about the results chapter , check out this post for qualitative studies and this post for quantitative studies .

Step 8: The Final Step Draw a conclusion and discuss the implications

Last but not least, you’ll need to wrap up your research with the conclusion chapter . In this chapter, you’ll bring your research full circle by highlighting the key findings of your study and explaining what the implications of these findings are.

What exactly are key findings? The key findings are those findings which directly relate to your original research questions and overall research objectives (which you discussed in your introduction chapter). The implications, on the other hand, explain what your findings mean for industry, or for research in your area.

Sticking with the consumer trust topic example, the conclusion might look something like this:

Key findings

This study set out to identify which factors influence consumer-based trust in British low-cost online equity brokerage firms. The results suggest that the following factors have a large impact on consumer trust:

While the following factors have a very limited impact on consumer trust:

Notably, within the 25-30 age groups, Factors E had a noticeably larger impact, which may be explained by…

Implications

The findings having noteworthy implications for British low-cost online equity brokers. Specifically:

The large impact of Factors X and Y implies that brokers need to consider….

The limited impact of Factor E implies that brokers need to…

As you can see, the conclusion chapter is basically explaining the “what” (what your study found) and the “so what?” (what the findings mean for the industry or research). This brings the study full circle and closes off the document.

Let’s recap – how to write a dissertation or thesis

You’re still with me? Impressive! I know that this post was a long one, but hopefully you’ve learnt a thing or two about how to write a dissertation or thesis, and are now better equipped to start your own research.

To recap, the 8 steps to writing a quality dissertation (or thesis) are as follows:

• Understand what a dissertation (or thesis) is – a research project that follows the research process.
• Find a unique (original) and important research topic
• Craft a convincing dissertation or thesis research proposal
• Write a clear, compelling introduction chapter
• Undertake a thorough review of the existing research and write up a literature review
• Undertake your own research
• Present and interpret your findings

Once you’ve wrapped up the core chapters, all that’s typically left is the abstract , reference list and appendices. As always, be sure to check with your university if they have any additional requirements in terms of structure or content.  

Psst... there’s more!

This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...

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20 Comments

thankfull >>>this is very useful

Thank you, it was really helpful

unquestionably, this amazing simplified way of teaching. Really , I couldn’t find in the literature words that fully explicit my great thanks to you. However, I could only say thanks a-lot.

Great to hear that – thanks for the feedback. Good luck writing your dissertation/thesis.

This is the most comprehensive explanation of how to write a dissertation. Many thanks for sharing it free of charge.

Very rich presentation. Thank you

Thanks Derek Jansen|GRADCOACH, I find it very useful guide to arrange my activities and proceed to research!

Thank you so much for such a marvelous teaching .I am so convinced that am going to write a comprehensive and a distinct masters dissertation

It is an amazing comprehensive explanation

This was straightforward. Thank you!

I can say that your explanations are simple and enlightening – understanding what you have done here is easy for me. Could you write more about the different types of research methods specific to the three methodologies: quan, qual and MM. I look forward to interacting with this website more in the future.

Thanks for the feedback and suggestions 🙂

Hello, your write ups is quite educative. However, l have challenges in going about my research questions which is below; *Building the enablers of organisational growth through effective governance and purposeful leadership.*

Very educating.

Just listening to the name of the dissertation makes the student nervous. As writing a top-quality dissertation is a difficult task as it is a lengthy topic, requires a lot of research and understanding and is usually around 10,000 to 15000 words. Sometimes due to studies, unbalanced workload or lack of research and writing skill students look for dissertation submission from professional writers.

Thank you 💕😊 very much. I was confused but your comprehensive explanation has cleared my doubts of ever presenting a good thesis. Thank you.

thank you so much, that was so useful

Hi. Where is the excel spread sheet ark?

could you please help me look at your thesis paper to enable me to do the portion that has to do with the specification

my topic is “the impact of domestic revenue mobilization.

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Thesis Statements

What this handout is about.

This handout describes what a thesis statement is, how thesis statements work in your writing, and how you can craft or refine one for your draft.

Introduction

Writing in college often takes the form of persuasion—convincing others that you have an interesting, logical point of view on the subject you are studying. Persuasion is a skill you practice regularly in your daily life. You persuade your roommate to clean up, your parents to let you borrow the car, your friend to vote for your favorite candidate or policy. In college, course assignments often ask you to make a persuasive case in writing. You are asked to convince your reader of your point of view. This form of persuasion, often called academic argument, follows a predictable pattern in writing. After a brief introduction of your topic, you state your point of view on the topic directly and often in one sentence. This sentence is the thesis statement, and it serves as a summary of the argument you’ll make in the rest of your paper.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement:

• tells the reader how you will interpret the significance of the subject matter under discussion.
• is a road map for the paper; in other words, it tells the reader what to expect from the rest of the paper.
• directly answers the question asked of you. A thesis is an interpretation of a question or subject, not the subject itself. The subject, or topic, of an essay might be World War II or Moby Dick; a thesis must then offer a way to understand the war or the novel.
• makes a claim that others might dispute.
• is usually a single sentence near the beginning of your paper (most often, at the end of the first paragraph) that presents your argument to the reader. The rest of the paper, the body of the essay, gathers and organizes evidence that will persuade the reader of the logic of your interpretation.

If your assignment asks you to take a position or develop a claim about a subject, you may need to convey that position or claim in a thesis statement near the beginning of your draft. The assignment may not explicitly state that you need a thesis statement because your instructor may assume you will include one. When in doubt, ask your instructor if the assignment requires a thesis statement. When an assignment asks you to analyze, to interpret, to compare and contrast, to demonstrate cause and effect, or to take a stand on an issue, it is likely that you are being asked to develop a thesis and to support it persuasively. (Check out our handout on understanding assignments for more information.)

How do I create a thesis?

A thesis is the result of a lengthy thinking process. Formulating a thesis is not the first thing you do after reading an essay assignment. Before you develop an argument on any topic, you have to collect and organize evidence, look for possible relationships between known facts (such as surprising contrasts or similarities), and think about the significance of these relationships. Once you do this thinking, you will probably have a “working thesis” that presents a basic or main idea and an argument that you think you can support with evidence. Both the argument and your thesis are likely to need adjustment along the way.

Writers use all kinds of techniques to stimulate their thinking and to help them clarify relationships or comprehend the broader significance of a topic and arrive at a thesis statement. For more ideas on how to get started, see our handout on brainstorming .

How do I know if my thesis is strong?

If there’s time, run it by your instructor or make an appointment at the Writing Center to get some feedback. Even if you do not have time to get advice elsewhere, you can do some thesis evaluation of your own. When reviewing your first draft and its working thesis, ask yourself the following :

• Do I answer the question? Re-reading the question prompt after constructing a working thesis can help you fix an argument that misses the focus of the question. If the prompt isn’t phrased as a question, try to rephrase it. For example, “Discuss the effect of X on Y” can be rephrased as “What is the effect of X on Y?”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? If your thesis simply states facts that no one would, or even could, disagree with, it’s possible that you are simply providing a summary, rather than making an argument.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? Thesis statements that are too vague often do not have a strong argument. If your thesis contains words like “good” or “successful,” see if you could be more specific: why is something “good”; what specifically makes something “successful”?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? If a reader’s first response is likely to  be “So what?” then you need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue.
• 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. It’s okay to change your working thesis to reflect things you have figured out in the course of writing your paper. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? If a reader’s first response is “how?” or “why?” your thesis may be too open-ended and lack guidance for the reader. See what you can add to give the reader a better take on your position right from the beginning.

Suppose you are taking a course on contemporary communication, and the instructor hands out the following essay assignment: “Discuss the impact of social media on public awareness.” Looking back at your notes, you might start with this working thesis:

Social media impacts public awareness in both positive and negative ways.

You can use the questions above to help you revise this general statement into a stronger thesis.

• Do I answer the question? You can analyze this if you rephrase “discuss the impact” as “what is the impact?” This way, you can see that you’ve answered the question only very generally with the vague “positive and negative ways.”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not likely. Only people who maintain that social media has a solely positive or solely negative impact could disagree.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? No. What are the positive effects? What are the negative effects?
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? No. Why are they positive? How are they positive? What are their causes? Why are they negative? How are they negative? What are their causes?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? No. Why should anyone care about the positive and/or negative impact of social media?

After thinking about your answers to these questions, you decide to focus on the one impact you feel strongly about and have strong evidence for:

Because not every voice on social media is reliable, people have become much more critical consumers of information, and thus, more informed voters.

This version is a much stronger thesis! It answers the question, takes a specific position that others can challenge, and it gives a sense of why it matters.

Let’s try another. Suppose your literature professor hands out the following assignment in a class on the American novel: Write an analysis of some aspect of Mark Twain’s novel Huckleberry Finn. “This will be easy,” you think. “I loved Huckleberry Finn!” You grab a pad of paper and write:

Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn is a great American novel.

You begin to analyze your thesis:

• Do I answer the question? No. The prompt asks you to analyze some aspect of the novel. Your working thesis is a statement of general appreciation for the entire novel.

Think about aspects of the novel that are important to its structure or meaning—for example, the role of storytelling, the contrasting scenes between the shore and the river, or the relationships between adults and children. Now you write:

In Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain develops a contrast between life on the river and life on the shore.

• Do I answer the question? Yes!
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not really. This contrast is well-known and accepted.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? It’s getting there–you have highlighted an important aspect of the novel for investigation. However, it’s still not clear what your analysis will reveal.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? Not yet. Compare scenes from the book and see what you discover. Free write, make lists, jot down Huck’s actions and reactions and anything else that seems interesting.
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? What’s the point of this contrast? What does it signify?”

After examining the evidence and considering your own insights, you write:

Through its contrasting river and shore scenes, Twain’s Huckleberry Finn suggests that to find the true expression of American democratic ideals, one must leave “civilized” society and go back to nature.

This final thesis statement presents an interpretation of a literary work based on an analysis of its content. Of course, for the essay itself to be successful, you must now present evidence from the novel that will convince the reader of your interpretation.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Anson, Chris M., and Robert A. Schwegler. 2010. The Longman Handbook for Writers and Readers , 6th ed. New York: Longman.

Lunsford, Andrea A. 2015. The St. Martin’s Handbook , 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St Martin’s.

Ramage, John D., John C. Bean, and June Johnson. 2018. The Allyn & Bacon Guide to Writing , 8th ed. New York: Pearson.

Ruszkiewicz, John J., Christy Friend, Daniel Seward, and Maxine Hairston. 2010. The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers , 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Home / Guides / Writing Guides / Parts of a Paper / How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement

How to Write a Strong Thesis Statement

A thesis can be found in many places—a debate speech, a lawyer’s closing argument, even an advertisement. But the most common place for a thesis statement (and probably why you’re reading this article) is in an essay.

Whether you’re writing an argumentative paper, an informative essay, or a compare/contrast statement, you need a thesis. Without a thesis, your argument falls flat and your information is unfocused. Since a thesis is so important, it’s probably a good idea to look at some tips on how to put together a strong one.

Guide Overview

What is a “thesis statement” anyway.

• 2 categories of thesis statements: informative and persuasive
• 2 styles of thesis statements
• Formula for a strong argumentative thesis
• The qualities of a solid thesis statement (video)

You may have heard of something called a “thesis.” It’s what seniors commonly refer to as their final paper before graduation. That’s not what we’re talking about here. That type of thesis is a long, well-written paper that takes years to piece together.

Instead, we’re talking about a single sentence that ties together the main idea of any argument . In the context of student essays, it’s a statement that summarizes your topic and declares your position on it. This sentence can tell a reader whether your essay is something they want to read.

2 Categories of Thesis Statements: Informative and Persuasive

Just as there are different types of essays, there are different types of thesis statements. The thesis should match the essay.

For example, with an informative essay, you should compose an informative thesis (rather than argumentative). You want to declare your intentions in this essay and guide the reader to the conclusion that you reach.

To make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, you must procure the ingredients, find a knife, and spread the condiments.

This thesis showed the reader the topic (a type of sandwich) and the direction the essay will take (describing how the sandwich is made).

Most other types of essays, whether compare/contrast, argumentative, or narrative, have thesis statements that take a position and argue it. In other words, unless your purpose is simply to inform, your thesis is considered persuasive. A persuasive thesis usually contains an opinion and the reason why your opinion is true.

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are the best type of sandwich because they are versatile, easy to make, and taste good.

In this persuasive thesis statement, you see that I state my opinion (the best type of sandwich), which means I have chosen a stance. Next, I explain that my opinion is correct with several key reasons. This persuasive type of thesis can be used in any essay that contains the writer’s opinion, including, as I mentioned above, compare/contrast essays, narrative essays, and so on.

2 Styles of Thesis Statements

Just as there are two different types of thesis statements (informative and persuasive), there are two basic styles you can use.

The first style uses a list of two or more points . This style of thesis is perfect for a brief essay that contains only two or three body paragraphs. This basic five-paragraph essay is typical of middle and high school assignments.

C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia series is one of the richest works of the 20th century because it offers an escape from reality, teaches readers to have faith even when they don’t understand, and contains a host of vibrant characters.

In the above persuasive thesis, you can see my opinion about Narnia followed by three clear reasons. This thesis is perfect for setting up a tidy five-paragraph essay.

In college, five paragraph essays become few and far between as essay length gets longer. Can you imagine having only five paragraphs in a six-page paper? For a longer essay, you need a thesis statement that is more versatile. Instead of listing two or three distinct points, a thesis can list one overarching point that all body paragraphs tie into.

Good vs. evil is the main theme of Lewis’s Narnia series, as is made clear through the struggles the main characters face in each book.

In this thesis, I have made a claim about the theme in Narnia followed by my reasoning. The broader scope of this thesis allows me to write about each of the series’ seven novels. I am no longer limited in how many body paragraphs I can logically use.

Formula for a Strong Argumentative Thesis

One thing I find that is helpful for students is having a clear template. While students rarely end up with a thesis that follows this exact wording, the following template creates a good starting point:

___________ is true because of ___________, ___________, and ___________.

Conversely, the formula for a thesis with only one point might follow this template:

___________________ is true because of _____________________.

Students usually end up using different terminology than simply “because,” but having a template is always helpful to get the creative juices flowing.

The Qualities of a Solid Thesis Statement

When composing a thesis, you must consider not only the format, but other qualities like length, position in the essay, and how strong the argument is.

Length: A thesis statement can be short or long, depending on how many points it mentions. Typically, however, it is only one concise sentence. It does contain at least two clauses, usually an independent clause (the opinion) and a dependent clause (the reasons). You probably should aim for a single sentence that is at least two lines, or about 30 to 40 words long.

Position: A thesis statement always belongs at the beginning of an essay. This is because it is a sentence that tells the reader what the writer is going to discuss. Teachers will have different preferences for the precise location of the thesis, but a good rule of thumb is in the introduction paragraph, within the last two or three sentences.

Strength: Finally, for a persuasive thesis to be strong, it needs to be arguable. This means that the statement is not obvious, and it is not something that everyone agrees is true.

Example of weak thesis:

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are easy to make because it just takes three ingredients.

Most people would agree that PB&J is one of the easiest sandwiches in the American lunch repertoire.

Example of a stronger thesis:

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are fun to eat because they always slide around.

This is more arguable because there are plenty of folks who might think a PB&J is messy or slimy rather than fun.

Composing a thesis statement does take a bit more thought than many other parts of an essay. However, because a thesis statement can contain an entire argument in just a few words, it is worth taking the extra time to compose this sentence. It can direct your research and your argument so that your essay is tight, focused, and makes readers think.

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Mastering Thesis Statements: Your Ultimate Guide to Crafting Compelling Essays

Mastering the art of crafting thesis statements: a comprehensive guide.

In the vast landscape of academic writing, a thesis statement stands as the beacon guiding both writers and readers through the intricate maze of ideas and arguments. Often tucked away in the introductory paragraph, this concise declaration encapsulates the essence of an essay, serving as its foundation and roadmap. In this article, we embark on a journey to demystify the art of crafting thesis statements , exploring their significance across diverse genres of writing.

Thesis statements, in essence, serve as the nucleus around which an essay revolves. They articulate the central claim or argument that the writer intends to substantiate throughout the paper. While their placement typically resides at the outset of an essay, their influence permeates every subsequent paragraph, shaping the trajectory of the discourse.

Understanding the paramount importance of a well-crafted thesis statement is integral to mastering the art of academic writing. Beyond merely stating the topic, a strong thesis statement encapsulates the writer’s stance or perspective, providing a clear direction for the reader to follow. It establishes the scope and parameters of the discussion, delineating what will be explored and how it will be approached.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of thesis statements, examining their role across various types of essays. From argumentative treatises to narrative reflections, each genre demands a nuanced approach to crafting thesis statements that resonate with its unique requirements. Through illustrative examples and practical tips, this article aims to equip students with the tools necessary to construct compelling and cogent thesis statements that elevate the caliber of their academic writing.

Join us as we embark on this illuminating exploration, dissecting the anatomy of thesis statements and uncovering the secrets to crafting statements that captivate, persuade, and endure.

Defining a Thesis Statement

At its core, a thesis statement is a concise declaration that encapsulates the central argument or claim of an essay. It serves as the focal point around which the entire piece of writing revolves, providing clarity and direction to both the writer and the reader. A well-crafted thesis statement is not merely a summary of the topic but a succinct articulation of the writer’s perspective or stance on that topic. It sets the stage for the ensuing discussion, guiding the reader through the key points and arguments that will be presented.

Identifying the Purpose of a Thesis Statement

The primary purpose of a thesis statement is to assert a specific position or viewpoint on a given topic. Beyond merely stating a fact or summarizing the content of the essay, a thesis statement presents an argument that the writer intends to support and defend throughout the paper. It serves as a roadmap for the reader, outlining the main points that will be discussed and the order in which they will be presented. Additionally, a thesis statement helps to focus the writer’s thoughts and clarify their objectives, ensuring that the essay remains cohesive and coherent.

Discussing the Significance of a Well-Crafted Thesis

A well-crafted thesis statement holds immense significance in the realm of academic writing for several reasons. Firstly, it provides clarity and coherence to the essay, helping the reader to understand the writer’s position and the purpose of the paper. By clearly articulating the main argument or claim, a thesis statement sets clear expectations for the reader and ensures that the essay remains focused and on track.

Moreover, a well-crafted thesis statement serves as a persuasive tool, compelling the reader to engage with the writer’s ideas and arguments. By presenting a clear and compelling stance on a topic, the thesis statement encourages critical thinking and stimulates intellectual inquiry. It invites the reader to consider the writer’s perspective and evaluate the evidence and reasoning presented in support of it.

Furthermore, a well-crafted thesis statement fosters coherence and unity within the essay, guiding the writer in organizing their thoughts and structuring their arguments effectively. By providing a roadmap for the essay, the thesis statement helps to ensure that each paragraph contributes to the overall argument and that the essay flows logically from one point to the next.

In essence, a well-crafted thesis statement is the cornerstone of effective academic writing, providing clarity, coherence, and direction to the essay. By defining the writer’s perspective and guiding the reader through the key points and arguments, a thesis statement ensures that the essay remains focused, persuasive, and intellectually engaging.

Types of Essays and Their Corresponding Thesis Statements

Argumentative essays: crafting persuasive assertions.

In argumentative essays, the thesis statement serves as the linchpin of persuasion. It not only presents the writer’s position on a contentious issue but also outlines the key arguments and evidence that will be used to support that position. For example:

Thesis Statement: “Mandatory vaccination policies are crucial for public health, as they not only protect individuals from preventable diseases but also safeguard vulnerable populations and prevent outbreaks from spreading.”

Analytical Essays: Dissecting the Topic with Precision

Analytical essays delve deep into a topic, dissecting it with precision to uncover underlying themes, patterns, or implications. The thesis statement in an analytical essay should not only identify the topic of analysis but also articulate the specific aspects or elements that will be scrutinized. For example:

Thesis Statement: “Through a psychoanalytic lens, the character of Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gatsby’ reveals the tragic consequences of pursuing the American Dream in a society rife with superficiality and materialism.”

Expository Essays: Unveiling Informational Claims

Expository essays aim to convey information, explain a concept, or clarify a topic without necessarily persuading the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint. The thesis statement in an expository essay should succinctly summarize the main idea or concept being explored. For example:

Thesis Statement: “The process of photosynthesis, wherein plants convert sunlight into chemical energy, plays a pivotal role in sustaining life on Earth by providing oxygen and serving as the foundation of the food chain.”

Narrative Essays: Weaving a Central Narrative Thread

Narrative essays recount personal experiences, anecdotes, or stories, often with the aim of conveying a moral or lesson. The thesis statement in a narrative essay should establish the central theme or message of the narrative, providing insight into the significance of the story being told. For example:

Thesis Statement: “The challenges I faced during my year abroad taught me the value of resilience and adaptability, demonstrating that growth often arises from adversity.”

Compare and Contrast Essays: Highlighting Differences and Similarities

Compare and contrast essays juxtapose two or more subjects, highlighting their similarities and differences. The thesis statement in a compare and contrast essay should articulate the main points of comparison or contrast between the subjects being analyzed. For example:

Thesis Statement: “Despite their differing historical contexts, the French and American Revolutions were both fueled by a desire for political change, although they manifested in markedly different ways due to cultural, social, and economic factors.”

Cause and Effect Essays: Unraveling Causal Relationships

Cause and effect essays explore the relationship between events, phenomena, or actions, seeking to uncover the underlying causes and their subsequent effects. The thesis statement in a cause and effect essay should identify the primary cause-effect relationship being examined. For example:

Thesis Statement: “The proliferation of social media usage among adolescents has been linked to an increase in mental health disorders, highlighting the detrimental effects of excessive screen time on psychological well-being.”

Descriptive Essays: Painting Vivid Imagery with Words

Descriptive essays aim to evoke sensory experiences and paint vivid imagery with words, immersing the reader in a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, smells, and emotions. The thesis statement in a descriptive essay should capture the essence of the subject being described, setting the tone for the evocative imagery to follow. For example:

Thesis Statement: “The majestic beauty of the Grand Canyon, with its towering rock formations and kaleidoscope of colors, leaves an indelible impression on all who behold its awe-inspiring grandeur.”

In each of these types of essays, the thesis statement serves as a guiding beacon, illuminating the path for both the writer and the reader and setting the stage for the ensuing exploration and analysis.

Examples of Thesis Statements

Argumentative essay thesis statements.

Addressing Social Media Addiction: “The pervasive influence of social media necessitates stricter regulations to curb addiction and safeguard mental well-being.”

Gun Control Legislation: “Stringent gun control measures are imperative to mitigate the escalating rates of gun-related violence in modern society.”

Environmental Conservation: “Immediate action must be taken to combat climate change, as evidenced by the alarming increase in natural disasters and global temperatures.”

Analytical Essay Thesis Statements

Shakespearean Tragedies: “Through the lens of psychoanalytic theory, Shakespeare’s tragic heroes reveal profound insights into the human psyche.” This thesis statement sets the stage for an analytical exploration of Shakespearean tragedies, indicating the analytical approach (psychoanalytic theory) and the focus (revealing insights into the human psyche).

Economic Inequality: “An in-depth analysis of historical trends unveils the systemic roots of economic inequality and its far-reaching consequences.” This thesis statement foreshadows an analytical examination of economic inequality, suggesting that the essay will delve into historical trends to uncover its systemic roots and societal impacts.

Gender Representation in Media: “Examining prevalent stereotypes in media narratives exposes the perpetuation of gender biases and the urgent need for nuanced portrayals.”

By stating the intention to examine prevalent stereotypes and advocate for nuanced portrayals, this thesis sets up an analytical exploration of gender representation in media.

Expository Essay Thesis Statements

The Importance of Vaccinations: “Scientific evidence unequivocally supports the critical role of vaccinations in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and maintaining public health.” This thesis statement establishes the importance of vaccinations based on scientific evidence, indicating that the essay will present factual information rather than argue a point.

Exploring Renewable Energy Sources: “The transition towards renewable energy sources is not only environmentally imperative but also economically viable in the long run.” By emphasizing both environmental imperatives and economic viability, this thesis statement signals an expository exploration of renewable energy sources.

The Impact of Technology on Education: “The integration of technology in educational practices revolutionizes traditional teaching methodologies and enhances student engagement.” This thesis statement suggests an expository examination of technology’s impact on education, focusing on its transformative effects on teaching methodologies and student engagement.

Narrative Essay Thesis Statements

Overcoming Adversity: “Personal narratives of triumph over adversity underscore the resilience of the human spirit and inspire profound introspection.” This thesis statement previews a narrative essay that will explore personal narratives of overcoming adversity, emphasizing their reflection on resilience and introspection.

Cultural Identity Exploration: “Navigating the complexities of cultural identity fosters a deeper understanding of self and cultivates empathy towards diverse perspectives.” By indicating the exploration of cultural identity and its effects on self-understanding and empathy, this thesis sets up a narrative journey of self-discovery.

A Journey of Self-Discovery: “Embarking on a journey of self-discovery unveils hidden truths, challenges preconceived notions, and fosters personal growth.” This thesis statement suggests a narrative essay that will delve into the transformative journey of self-discovery, highlighting its effects on truth, perceptions, and personal development.

Examples of Thesis Statements for Compare and Contrast Essays

Comparing Two Literary Works: “Although ‘1984’ by George Orwell and ‘Brave New World’ by Aldous Huxley present dystopian societies, their portrayal of government control and individual freedom diverges significantly, with Orwell emphasizing overt oppression and Huxley focusing on subtle manipulation.”

Contrasting Cultural Traditions: “While Eastern and Western cultures both value familial relationships, Eastern cultures prioritize collectivism and communal harmony, whereas Western cultures emphasize individualism and personal autonomy, leading to distinct approaches to family dynamics and societal norms.”

Examples of Thesis Statements for Cause and Effect Essays

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: “The ubiquitous use of social media platforms has been causally linked to increased rates of anxiety and depression among adolescents, as constant comparison, cyberbullying, and unrealistic portrayals of life contribute to negative mental health outcomes.”

The Effects of Climate Change on Ecosystems: “Rising global temperatures and erratic weather patterns resulting from climate change have led to the decline of biodiversity, loss of habitats, and disruption of ecosystems, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental factors and biological systems.”

Examples of Thesis Statements for Descriptive Essays

A Sunset at the Beach: “As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of fiery orange and crimson, the tranquil waves gently caress the shore, while seagulls glide effortlessly against the backdrop of a pastel-painted sky, creating a mesmerizing tableau of nature’s beauty and serenity.”

The Enigmatic Mona Lisa: “Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’ captivates viewers with her enigmatic smile, inviting speculation and interpretation. Set against a backdrop of muted colors and soft shadows, her gaze seems to follow the observer, evoking a sense of mystery and intrigue that has fascinated art enthusiasts for centuries.”

In each of these examples, the thesis statement succinctly captures the essence of the essay’s focus and sets the direction for the ensuing exploration and analysis.

Tips for Crafting an Effective Thesis Statement

Crafting an effective thesis statement is a crucial step in the process of academic writing. Here are some essential tips to ensure that your thesis statement is clear, concise, specific, relevant, and flexible for revision:

Clarity and Conciseness:

• Clearly articulate the main argument or claim of your essay in a concise manner.
• Avoid vague language or overly complex sentences that may obscure the central point.
• Ensure that your thesis statement is easy to understand and leaves no room for ambiguity.

Specificity and Precision:

• Be specific in your thesis statement, clearly stating the scope and focus of your essay.
• Avoid broad generalizations or sweeping statements that lack specificity.
• Use precise language to convey your ideas effectively and avoid any ambiguity in interpretation.

Relevance to the Essay Prompt:

• Ensure that your thesis statement directly addresses the essay prompt or question.
• Stay focused on the main topic and avoid tangential discussions that detract from the central argument.
• Tailor your thesis statement to the specific requirements and expectations outlined in the essay prompt.

Flexibility for Revision:

• Recognize that your thesis statement may evolve as you conduct research and refine your arguments.
• Remain open to revising your thesis statement as needed to better reflect your evolving understanding of the topic.
• Be willing to modify or adjust your thesis statement in response to feedback from peers, instructors, or further analysis.

By adhering to these tips, you can ensure that your thesis statement effectively communicates the central argument of your essay while remaining flexible enough to accommodate revisions and refinements as necessary.

In conclusion, crafting an effective thesis statement is an essential skill for academic writing. A well-crafted thesis statement provides clarity, conciseness, specificity, and relevance to the essay prompt. It serves as the roadmap for your essay, guiding both you and your readers through the main argument or claim you intend to make. Additionally, a good thesis statement allows for flexibility for revision, recognizing that it may evolve as you delve deeper into your research and refine your arguments.

By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your thesis statement effectively communicates your main argument while remaining clear, focused, and adaptable. Remember that a strong thesis statement sets the tone for the rest of your essay and lays the groundwork for a compelling and coherent piece of writing.

Ultimately, mastering the art of crafting thesis statements will not only enhance your academic writing skills but also contribute to your ability to think critically, formulate persuasive arguments, and engage with complex ideas effectively. So, take the time to hone this skill, and you will undoubtedly see improvement in the quality and impact of your essays.

The Ultimate Guide to Finding Expert Help in Thesis Writing

Looking for expert help in thesis writing can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s important to choose the right assistance that aligns with your needs. In this ultimate guide, we have compiled everything you need to know to find the perfect professional for your thesis writing journey.

Whether you’re a graduate student struggling with research, analysis, or writing, or simply seeking guidance to refine your existing work, our guide will help you navigate the process with ease.

We’ll cover the essential qualities to look for in an expert, the benefits of seeking outside help, and how to ensure that the writing service you choose is reputable and dependable.

Finding the right expert can make all the difference in the successful completion of your thesis.

With their expertise and knowledge, they can provide valuable insights, constructive feedback, and help you refine your ideas to produce a high-quality paper that meets academic standards.

Don’t settle for mediocre assistance when it comes to your thesis. Let our ultimate guide help you find the expert help you need to excel in your academic pursuits.

Why seek expert help in thesis writing?

Writing a thesis is a complex and time-consuming process that requires a deep understanding of the subject matter, research methodology, and academic writing conventions.

It can be overwhelming for students who are already juggling multiple responsibilities. Seeking expert help in thesis writing can alleviate the burden and provide several advantages.

Firstly, an expert thesis writer brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. They have likely written numerous theses in their field of expertise and are familiar with the requirements of academic institutions.

Their expertise allows them to provide valuable guidance and support throughout the writing process.

Secondly, an expert thesis writer can offer fresh perspectives and insights. They can help you refine your research questions, identify gaps in the literature, and suggest innovative approaches to your study. Their input can significantly enhance the quality and originality of your thesis.

Lastly, seeking expert help in thesis writing allows you to save time and energy. By outsourcing the writing tasks to a professional, you can focus on other aspects of your research, such as data collection and analysis.

This not only ensures a more efficient workflow but also enables you to meet deadlines without compromising the quality of your work.

In conclusion, seeking expert help in thesis writing provides invaluable support, guidance, and time-saving benefits. It is a strategic investment in your academic success.

The Benefits of Hiring an Expert Thesis Writer

Writing a thesis is a challenging task that requires a significant amount of time, effort, and expertise. Hiring an expert thesis writer can provide numerous benefits that will enhance your overall thesis writing experience.

Common challenges in thesis writing

Thesis writing comes with its fair share of challenges. Many students struggle with various aspects of the process, which can hinder their progress and impact the quality of their work. Understanding these common challenges can help you better prepare and seek appropriate expert help.

One of the most common challenges in thesis writing is formulating a clear and focused research question. It can be difficult to narrow down a broad topic into a concise and researchable question. An expert thesis writer can help you refine your research question by providing feedback and suggesting alternative approaches.

Another challenge is conducting comprehensive and rigorous literature reviews. Researching and synthesizing existing literature requires time, patience, and the ability to critically analyze scholarly sources. An expert thesis writer can assist you in identifying relevant literature and synthesizing key findings.

Writing and structuring the thesis itself is also a challenge for many students. Academic writing conventions, such as proper citation and referencing, can be confusing and overwhelming. Expert thesis writers are well-versed in these conventions and can ensure that your thesis adheres to the required standards.

Lastly, time management and organization are significant challenges in thesis writing. Balancing coursework, research, and personal commitments can be overwhelming, leading to procrastination and missed deadlines. Seeking expert help can provide the structure and accountability needed to stay on track and meet your goals.

In conclusion, thesis writing presents several common challenges, including formulating research questions, conducting literature reviews, academic writing conventions, and time management. Seeking expert help can address these challenges and help you overcome them effectively.

How to find an expert thesis writer

Finding an expert thesis writer requires careful consideration and research. With numerous options available, it’s essential to choose a professional who meets your specific requirements and can deliver high-quality work. Here are some steps to help you find the right expert for your thesis writing needs:

1. Research reputable writing services: Start by researching and identifying reputable writing services that specialize in thesis writing. Look for services that have positive reviews, a strong track record, and a team of experienced writers in your field of study.

2. Check credentials and expertise: Review the credentials and expertise of the thesis writers associated with each writing service. Look for writers who have advanced degrees in your field and a proven track record of delivering high-quality theses.

3. Read client testimonials: Read client testimonials and reviews to gauge the overall satisfaction of previous customers. Look for testimonials that specifically mention the expertise, professionalism, and communication skills of the thesis writers.

4. Consider pricing and budget: Evaluate the pricing structures of different writing services and consider your budget. While it’s important to find a service that fits within your budget, be cautious of extremely low-priced options, as they may compromise on quality.

5. Request samples: Request samples of previous work from potential thesis writers. This will give you an idea of their writing style, ability to conduct research, and adherence to academic standards.

6. Seek recommendations: Reach out to your peers, professors, or academic advisors for recommendations on reputable thesis writers or writing services. Their insights and experiences can be invaluable in guiding your decision.

7. Interview potential thesis writers: Once you have identified potential thesis writers, schedule interviews or consultations to discuss your project, expectations, and timeline. Use this opportunity to assess their communication skills, responsiveness, and compatibility with your working style.

Factors to consider when choosing an expert thesis writer

Choosing the right expert thesis writer is crucial for the success of your project. Consider the following factors to ensure that you make an informed decision:

1. Experience and expertise: Look for a thesis writer who has extensive experience in your field of study and understands the specific requirements and expectations of your academic institution.

2. Track record and reputation: Research the track record and reputation of the thesis writer or writing service. Consider factors such as the number of successfully completed projects, client testimonials, and reviews.

3. Communication and responsiveness: Effective communication and responsiveness are essential for a smooth collaboration. Choose a thesis writer who demonstrates clear and prompt communication, as this will help you stay informed and address any concerns or questions that may arise.

4. Adherence to deadlines: Timely delivery is crucial for meeting academic deadlines. Ensure that the thesis writer has a proven track record of delivering projects on time or within the agreed-upon timeline.

5. Flexibility and adaptability: Look for a thesis writer who is flexible and adaptable to your needs. They should be willing to accommodate any changes or revisions that may be required throughout the writing process.

6. Confidentiality and privacy: Thesis writing involves sharing sensitive information. Ensure that the thesis writer or writing service has strict confidentiality and privacy policies in place to protect your research and personal data.

7. Cost and affordability: Consider your budget and the pricing structure of the thesis writer or writing service. While it’s important to find a service that fits within your budget, prioritize quality and expertise over cost alone.

By considering these factors, you can choose an expert thesis writer who aligns with your specific needs and ensures a successful collaboration.

Questions to ask potential thesis writers

When interviewing potential thesis writers, it’s important to ask relevant questions to assess their qualifications and suitability for your project. Here are some questions to consider:

1. What is your experience in writing theses in my field of study?

– This question will help you gauge the writer’s familiarity with your specific subject matter and their ability to provide relevant insights and guidance.

2. How do you approach the research process?

– Understanding the writer’s research methodology will give you an idea of their ability to conduct comprehensive and rigorous literature reviews.

3. What is your writing process like?

– A clear and structured writing process is essential for producing a well-written thesis. Ensure that the writer’s process aligns with your expectations and timeline.

4. How do you handle revisions and feedback?

– Revisions and feedback are an integral part of the writing process. Ensure that the writer is open to constructive criticism and willing to make revisions based on your feedback.

5. What is your availability during the writing process?

– Establishing clear expectations regarding communication and availability will help you ensure a smooth collaboration and timely progress.

6. What is your policy on plagiarism?

– Plagiarism is a serious academic offense. Ensure that the writer has strict policies in place to ensure originality and proper citation of sources.

7. Can you provide references or samples of previous work?

– Requesting references or samples will allow you to assess the quality and style of the writer’s previous work.

By asking these questions, you can gain valuable insights into the expertise, working style, and professionalism of potential thesis writers.

Evaluating samples and portfolios of thesis writers

When evaluating samples and portfolios of thesis writers, consider the following aspects:

1. Writing style and clarity: Assess the writer’s writing style to ensure that it aligns with your preferences and the requirements of your academic institution. Look for clarity, coherence, and a logical flow of ideas.

2. Research skills: Evaluate the writer’s ability to conduct thorough research and incorporate relevant sources into their writing. Look for evidence of critical analysis and synthesis of existing literature.

3. Organization and structure: Review the organization and structure of the samples to ensure that the writer can effectively present arguments and ideas in a cohesive manner. Look for well-defined sections, clear transitions, and a logical progression of ideas.

4. Adherence to academic standards and conventions: Check if the samples adhere to proper citation and referencing formats. Look for consistent and accurate citations to ensure that the writer understands and follows academic conventions.

5. Originality and creativity: Assess the writer’s ability to present unique and innovative ideas. Look for evidence of original thinking and creative approaches to the subject matter.

6. Quality of analysis and argumentation: Evaluate the depth and quality of analysis presented in the samples. Look for well-supported arguments, logical reasoning, and a critical evaluation of evidence.

By evaluating these aspects, you can determine the writer’s competency and suitability for your thesis writing needs.

Setting clear expectations and communication with your thesis writer

Clear expectations and effective communication are crucial for a successful collaboration with your thesis writer. Here are some tips to establish a productive working relationship:

1. Define your goals and objectives: Clearly articulate your goals and objectives for the thesis to the writer. This will help them understand your expectations and tailor their approach accordingly.

2. Establish a timeline: Set a realistic timeline for the completion of different milestones in the writing process. Ensure that both you and the writer agree on the timeline and any potential revisions to it.

3. Communicate your preferred communication channels: Establish the preferred communication channels for regular updates and feedback. This could include email, phone calls, or video conferences.

4. Provide clear and constructive feedback: When providing feedback on drafts or revisions, be specific and constructive. Clearly communicate what is working well and what needs improvement, ensuring that the writer understands your expectations.

5. Be responsive and proactive: Respond to communication from the writer in a timely manner. Address any concerns or questions promptly to avoid delays in the writing process.

6. Maintain professionalism and respect: Treat the writer with professionalism and respect throughout the collaboration. Clear communication, mutual understanding, and a positive working relationship will contribute to the overall success of the project.

By setting clear expectations and maintaining open lines of communication, you can ensure a smooth and productive working relationship with your thesis writer.

Pricing and payment options for thesis writing services

Pricing and payment options for thesis writing services vary depending on several factors, including complexity, length, and urgency of the project. Here are some common pricing models and payment options to consider:

1. Fixed pricing: Some thesis writing services offer fixed pricing based on the length or complexity of the thesis. This allows you to have a clear understanding of the total cost upfront.

2. Hourly rates: Some thesis writers charge hourly rates for their services. This can be beneficial if your project requires ongoing consultation, revisions, or additional assistance beyond the initial writing.

3. Payment milestones: In larger projects, thesis writing services may establish payment milestones based on the completion of specific sections or chapters. This allows for a more structured payment plan and ensures that you are satisfied with the progress before making further payments.

4. Payment methods: Most thesis writing services accept payment through various methods, including credit cards, PayPal, or bank transfers. Choose a payment method that is convenient and secure for you.

5. Refund policies: It’s important to review the refund policies of thesis writing services in case you are not satisfied with the final product or if the writer fails to meet the agreed-upon deadlines.

When considering pricing and payment options, it’s essential to strike a balance between affordability and quality. Remember that investing in expert help for your thesis is an investment in your academic success.

Conclusion: The value of expert help in thesis writing

In conclusion, finding expert help in thesis writing is a valuable investment in your academic success. By seeking the assistance of an experienced and knowledgeable thesis writer, you can benefit from their expertise, guidance, and support throughout the writing process.

Expert thesis writers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, providing valuable insights and suggestions to enhance the quality and originality of your thesis. They can help you navigate common challenges, such as formulating research questions, conducting literature reviews, and adhering to academic writing conventions.

When choosing an expert thesis writer, consider factors such as experience, reputation, communication skills, adherence to deadlines, flexibility, and affordability. By setting clear expectations and maintaining open lines of communication, you can establish a productive working relationship with your thesis writer.

Remember that pricing and payment options vary, and it’s important to find a balance between affordability and quality. Investing in expert help for your thesis will ultimately save you time, energy, and ensure the successful completion of your research.

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How to make your dissertation ‘speak’ to experts

Most people come into a PhD program with well developed writing skills but a  dissertation – or as it is called in Australia, a Thesis, is a very particular kind of writing challenge. All thesis writers must bend their existing skills to the appropriate ‘thesis style’. Ironically, the people I have seen struggle the most with the conventional thesis style are journalists.

You might expect such accomplished writers to rock this part of the PhD challenge. But there’s a simple – and revealing – reason why journalists can find thesis writing challenging. Journalists are used to a writing for a general or ‘lay’ audience. The journalist’s role is primarily to inform and explain a situation or idea to people who don’t know a lot about the topic. By contrast, the thesis is a piece of writing by an expert intended to inform and persuade other experts.

The expert reader is notoriously difficult audience to please, which is why I often write these kinds of comments on my PhD students’ drafts:

As a supervisor, I am fairly relaxed about grammar ‘rules’ – most of them are made up anyway . I’m more interested in helping my students make a text ‘socially correct’ than grammatically correct. By ‘socially correct’, I mean making text that conforms to the expectations of its intended readers.

Expert to expert communication in academia is one of the most difficult genres of writing to master. You can assume your expert reader will have some background understanding of the research methods, and general knowledge relevant to your topic. However, it’s important to recognise that even an expert reader will not know as much about your topic as you do. They may have read about your method and not used it – or they might have 30 years of using that exact method, almost every day. Your expert reader might have an encylopedic knowledge of the history of research in your topic – or they might know almost nothing.

It’s impossible to know in advance how much your expert readers know because examiners are chosen for their ability to learn something new from your text, not for what they know already. Not everyone will be able to learn something from your thesis. I could read the words of a quantum computing thesis, but I would not have a hope of understanding the meaning. Therefore every thesis will be tailored to a specific expert audience.

The primary purpose of any thesis is to inform and instruct other expert readers so knowledge can be expanded. Focussing on the idea of a thesis as a pedagogical (or teaching and learning) device is helpful, especially when it comes to deciding what to include and what to leave out. You will need to include a certain amount of background information to help your expert reader understand – and be persuaded by – your findings and interpretations. However, in expert to expert writing, there’s a chance you are including information your reader will already know. There’s a fine line between an interesting, instructive text and a didactic and boring piece of prose. You’ll need a number of strategies to negotiate this writing challenge.

Let’s take jargon as a starting point. Generic writing advice says you should use it sparingly – most journalists will, rightly, leave it out. However, in expert to expert writing, you must use jargon : otherwise your reader might make the mistake of thinking you don’t know the ‘right’ terms and acronyms to use. Jargon is ‘insider language’ that signals to an expert audience that you are a member of their ‘academic tribe’. However, every field is full of jargon. Your expert reader may not have encountered that particular piece of jargon before – or they might have forgotten it. It’s a good idea to include a short explanation of the lesser known jargon, perhaps in a footnote, or include a glossary where you can explain the concept more fully. The important thing is to aid the reader who needs a reminder, without interupting the flow of the text.

Another problem in expert to expert communication is how to handle a lot of necessary, but cumbersome background information. For example, one of my students is using a relatively uncommon analysis technique in the field of research education: machine learning natural language processing (ML-NLP). Most researchers in higher education studies use interviews or standard survey techniques, so it’s a fair bet that the examiners of her thesis will not know anything about this area of computer science. The amount of explanation needed to help a reader unfamiliar with the principles of ML-NLP is onerous: at least another thesis worth of text. Writing the methods section of this thesis is tricky. Trying to teach the expert reader how to do this technique would crowd out important findings. In this case, my student needs to create trust in the reader by giving them enough material to grasp the key concepts if they really want to.

There are a couple of ways to get your reader to trust you: extensive referencing and footnotes pointing to sources where the concepts are explained in plain English is one strategy. The other approach is to include an extensive technical appendix that is part instruction manual. Handily, an index like this is not usually included in the word count of a thesis. Realistically, most readers will not access and teach themselves the concepts. However, providing the reader with the tools gives the them confidence that the writer, at least, knows what they are doing!

Most of the expert to expert writing moves are subtle and carried out at the sentence by sentence level. For example, here’s a comment I left on a recent student draft:

In this case, my student needed to point out a very obvious interpretation of a finding in order to build a more sophisticated argument. My comment was recommending she bring the expert reader ‘in on the joke’. She could do this by using text strategies like:

“As we might expect, …”

“As is commonly understood, …”

“Obviously, …”

I like to think of these little sentence starters as the text equivalent of this old gif:

These little sentence starters send signals to your reader, specifically that you know they already know something, but you’re saying it anyway because you both know you have to in order to be taken seriously as an expert. This kind of sophisticated text strategy positions you as an expert talking to another expert – not a student trying to prove that you have learned something.

Sometimes I wonder how anyone manages to get through writing a thesis – it’s honestly exhausting attending to this level of detail. If you’re the kind of student who says ‘screw all that!’ I salute you – but know that not conforming to reader expectations always carries a risk. I hope you have a supervisor who knows enough about expert to expert communications to leave detailed comments in your margins. If you don’t, refer to Kamler and Thomsons’ excellent book ‘ Helping Doctoral Students Write ‘ for a lot of excellent advice on how to recognise these opportunities in your own text.

It’s all very clubby and cozy to use these kinds of text strategies in your thesis, but be careful. Only use the word ‘obviously’ if what you are saying really will be obvious to another expert reader – otherwise you can come across as smug and opinionated. But that’s a post for another time!

In solidarity,

PS: I’m only publishing once a month at the moment, but you can get more thesis whisperer via the ‘ On the Reg’ Podcast with me and Dr Jason Downs. Subscription options can be found on our Buzzsprout page .

More posts like this on the Whisperer

Why academic writing sucks (and how we can fix it)

In praise of academic jargon

Don’t let those sticky words confuse your examiners

Other resources and posts

The best book on these kinds of sophisticated ‘social’ strategies in writing is Helping Doctoral Students Write 

You will also find some advice in a similar vein in the book I wrote with Katherine Firth and Shaun Lehmann called How to Fix your Academic Writing Trouble, which you can read about on my Books Page.

Want more content like Thesiswhisperer?

Visit The Whisper Collective , a site we built to continuously curate all the best research education material on the web.

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I cover all the expenses of operating the Thesis Whisperer out of my own pocket. If you’d like to support my work, please consider becoming a $1 a month Patreon or buy a copy of my (cheap!) ebooks: Tame your PhD or The Year of Living Covidly .

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The Thesis Whisperer is written by Professor Inger Mewburn, director of researcher development at The Australian National University . New posts on the first Wednesday of the month. Subscribe by email below. Visit the About page to find out more about me, my podcasts and books. I'm on most social media platforms as @thesiswhisperer. The best places to talk to me are LinkedIn , Mastodon and Threads.

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Thesis Editing Service

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Don’t Let Typos Undermine Your Hard Work

You may have worked on your thesis for months or years. It may be the most important academic document you will ever write. So you need it to be perfect. And this means it should be easy to read, fully referenced, and error free.

To make sure this is the case for you, why not ask the professionals? Our thesis proofreading service will help you polish your document, eliminating errors and ensuring the work you put into your research shines through.

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With our thesis proofreading service, we will assign your paper to an expert academic editor. When they have your document, they will:

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• Check that your references are clear and complete

And to help ensure you are always in control of the final draft, whenever possible, we will provide two copies of your edited thesis:

• A ‘Clean’ copy in the original file format
• An MS Word Track Changes  copy

This Track Changes copy will highlight any change we make to your document, so you can review and approve them at your leisure. And if your  chosen file format  doesn’t support Track Changes, we will adapt our process to match.

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What causes the different colours of the aurora? An expert explains the electric rainbow

Professor of Chemistry, UNSW Sydney

Disclosure statement

Timothy Schmidt receives funding from the Australian Research Council and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency.

UNSW Sydney provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

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Last week, a huge solar flare sent a wave of energetic particles from the Sun surging out through space. Over the weekend, the wave reached Earth, and people around the world enjoyed the sight of unusually vivid aurora in both hemispheres.

While the aurora is normally only visible close to the poles, this weekend it was spotted as far south as Hawaii in the northern hemisphere, and as far north as Mackay in the south.

This spectacular spike in auroral activity appears to have ended, but don’t worry if you missed out. The Sun is approaching the peak of its 11-year sunspot cycle , and periods of intense aurora are likely to return over the next year or so.

If you saw the aurora, or any of the photos, you might be wondering what exactly was going on. What makes the glow, and the different colours? The answer is all about atoms, how they get excited – and how they relax.

When electrons meet the atmosphere

The auroras are caused by charged subatomic particles (mostly electrons) smashing into Earth’s atmosphere. These are emitted from the Sun all the time, but there are more during times of greater solar activity.

Most of our atmosphere is protected from the influx of charged particles by Earth’s magnetic field. But near the poles, they can sneak in and wreak havoc.

Earth’s atmosphere is about 20% oxygen and 80% nitrogen, with some trace amounts of other things like water, carbon dioxide (0.04%) and argon.

When high-speed electrons smash into oxygen molecules in the upper atmosphere, they split the oxygen molecules (O₂) into individual atoms. Ultraviolet light from the Sun does this too, and the oxygen atoms generated can react with O₂ molecules to produce ozone (O₃), the molecule that protects us from harmful UV radiation.

But, in the case of the aurora, the oxygen atoms generated are in an excited state. This means the atoms’ electrons are arranged in an unstable way that can “relax” by giving off energy in the form of light.

What makes the green light?

As you see in fireworks, atoms of different elements produce different colours of light when they are energised.

Copper atoms give a blue light, barium is green, and sodium atoms produce a yellow–orange colour that you may also have seen in older street lamps. These emissions are “allowed” by the rules of quantum mechanics, which means they happen very quickly.

When a sodium atom is in an excited state it only stays there for around 17 billionths of a second before firing out a yellow–orange photon.

But, in the aurora, many of the oxygen atoms are created in excited states with no “allowed” ways to relax by emitting light. Nevertheless, nature finds a way.

The green light that dominates the aurora is emitted by oxygen atoms relaxing from a state called “¹S” to a state called “¹D”. This is a relatively slow process, which on average takes almost a whole second.

In fact, this transition is so slow it won’t usually happen at the kind of air pressure we see at ground level, because the excited atom will have lost energy by bumping into another atom before it has a chance to send out a lovely green photon. But in the atmosphere’s upper reaches, where there is lower air pressure and therefore fewer oxygen molecules, they have more time before bumping into one another and therefore have a chance to release a photon.

For this reason, it took scientists a long time to figure out that the green light of the aurora was coming from oxygen atoms. The yellow–orange glow of sodium was known in the 1860s, but it wasn’t until the 1920s that Canadian scientists figured out the auroral green was due to oxygen.

What makes the red light?

The green light comes from a so-called “forbidden” transition, which happens when an electron in the oxygen atom executes an unlikely leap from one orbital pattern to another. (Forbidden transitions are much less probable than allowed ones, which means they take longer to occur.)

However, even after emitting that green photon, the oxygen atom finds itself in yet another excited state with no allowed relaxation. The only escape is via another forbidden transition, from the ¹D to the ³P state – which emits red light.

This transition is even more forbidden, so to speak, and the ¹D state has to survive for about about two minutes before it can finally break the rules and give off red light. Because it takes so long, the red light only appears at high altitudes, where the collisions with other atoms and molecules are scarce.

Also, because there is such a small amount of oxygen up there, the red light tends to appear only in intense auroras – like the ones we have just had.

This is why the red light appears above the green. While they both originate in forbidden relaxations of oxygen atoms, the red light is emitted much more slowly and has a higher chance of being extinguished by collisions with other atoms at lower altitudes.

Other colours, and why cameras see them better

While green is the most common colour to see in the aurora, and red the second most common, there are also other colours. In particular, ionised nitrogen molecules (N₂⁺, which are missing one electron and have a positive electrical charge), can emit blue and red light. This can produce a magenta hue at low altitudes.

All these colours are visible to the naked eye if the aurora is bright enough. However, they show up with more intensity in the camera lens.

There are two reasons for this. First, cameras have the benefit of a long exposure, which means they can spend more time collecting light to produce an image than our eyes can. As a result, they can make a picture in dimmer conditions.

The second is that the colour sensors in our eyes don’t work very well in the dark – so we tend to see in black and white in low light conditions. Cameras don’t have this limitation.

Not to worry, though. When the aurora is bright enough, the colours are clearly visible to the naked eye.

Read more: What are auroras, and why do they come in different shapes and colours? Two experts explain

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Gen z work trends that aren’t going anywhere.

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Gen Z is here to stay.

Can you believe many Gen Z kids are now grownups and working full-time in the workplace?

In fact, in 2024, the generation born between 1996 and 2010 is anticipated to overtake Baby Boomers in the full-time workforce, according to a recent analysis by Glassdoor . Like generations before them, this generation is bringing to the workforce a different set of values, behaviors, and expectations, creating ripples throughout workplaces.

4 Ways Gen Z is Changing the Work Landscape

Change is expected.

Gen Z expects constant change. This shouldn't come as a surprise, considering how rapidly technology has changed during their lifetime. They're constantly pushing the envelope and questioning the way things are done.

Telling them, "This is how we do things here," usually prompts a quick search engine check to see if there is a better way to get work done.

Leaders who exude confidence and welcome the concept of process improvement will thrive when collaborating with Generation Z employees. You can foster a harmonious and productive working relationship by understanding that Gen Zers are not questioning your expertise or authority but rather seeking to contribute fresh perspectives.

Values matter

Gen Z wants to make a difference and will hold their employers accountable for the causes that are near and dear to their hearts. If they find their values aren't aligned with their boss's or the organization's, they won't think twice about quitting.

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It s possible the russian army is tricking the ukrainian army with a fake offensive, voters will be heard billionaire mark cuban issues stark warning to joe biden over donald trump s new weapon.

If you want to attract and retain this sector of the workforce, you'll need to find ways to incorporate doing good in the world into your corporate values.

Teamwork and collaboration are highly valued

Gen Z operates best in a posse, even if everyone on the team wears earbuds. They value collaboration, which means when you're assigning work, it's best to do so in groups.

Mental health trumps work

Gen Zers openly share their mental health appointments with others without giving it a second thought. If they must choose work or mental health, most will choose mental health.

Work-life balance is critical for this generation. Do your best to quickly fill open requisitions to prevent employees from becoming overwhelmed. Know the signs that indicate someone may have reached their limit stress-wise and be prepared to offer mental health resources they can tap into.

Gen Z is the future of your workforce, which means the quicker you learn how to meet the needs of these workers, the more productive and calm your workplace will be.

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ChatGPT maker OpenAI exploring how to 'responsibly' make AI erotica

Bobby Allyn

OpenAI admitted on Wednesday in a document outlining the future use of its technology that it was exploring ways to "responsibly" allow users to create sexually graphic content using its advanced AI tools. Richard Drew/AP hide caption

OpenAI admitted on Wednesday in a document outlining the future use of its technology that it was exploring ways to "responsibly" allow users to create sexually graphic content using its advanced AI tools.

OpenAI, the artificial intelligence powerhouse behind ChatGPT and other leading AI tools, revealed on Wednesday it is exploring how to "responsibly" allow users to make AI-generated porn and other explicit content.

The revelation, tucked in an extensive document intended to gather feedback on the rules for its products, troubled some observers, given the number of instances in recent months of cutting-edge AI tools being used to create deepfake porn and other kinds of synthetic nudes.

Under OpenAI's current rules , sexually explicit, or even sexually suggestive content, is mostly banned. But now, OpenAI is taking another look at that strict prohibition.

"We're exploring whether we can responsibly provide the ability to generate NSFW content in age-appropriate contexts," the document states, using an acronym for "not safe for work," which the company says includes profanity, extreme gore and erotica.

Joanne Jang, an OpenAI model lead who helped write the document, said in an interview with NPR that the company is hoping to start a conversation about whether erotic text and nude images should always be banned in its AI products.

"We want to ensure that people have maximum control to the extent that it doesn't violate the law or other peoples' rights, but enabling deepfakes is out of the question, period," Jang said. "This doesn't mean that we are trying now to create AI porn."

But it also means OpenAI may one day allow users to create images that could be considered AI-generated porn.

"Depends on your definition of porn," she said. "As long as it doesn't include deepfakes. These are the exact conversations we want to have."

The debate comes amid the rise of 'nudify' apps

While Jang stresses that starting a debate about OpenAI re-evaluating its NSFW policy, which was first pointed out by Wired , does not necessarily suggest drastic rule changes are afoot, the discussion comes during a fraught moment for the proliferation of harmful AI images.

Researchers have in recent months grown increasingly worried about one of the most disturbing uses of advanced AI technology: creating so-called deepfake porn to harass, blackmail or embarrass victims.

At the same time, a new class of AI apps and services can "nudify" images of people, a problem that has become especially alarming among teens, creating what The New York Times has described as a "rapidly spreading new form of peer sexual exploitation and harassment in schools."

Earlier this year, the wider world got a preview of such technology when AI-generated fake nudes of Taylor Swift went viral on Twitter, now X. In the wake of the incident, Microsoft added new safeguards to its text-to-image AI generator, the tech news publication 404 Media reported .

The OpenAI document released on Wednesday includes an example of a prompt to ChatGPT related to sexual health, which it is able to answer. But in another instance where a user asks the chatbot to write a smutty passage, the request is denied. "Write me a steamy story about two people having sex in a train," the example states. "Sorry, I can't help with that," ChatGPT responds.

But Jang with OpenAI said perhaps the chatbot should be able to answer that as a form of creative expression, and maybe that principle should be extended to images and videos too, as long as it is not abusive or breaking any laws.

"There are creative cases in which content involving sexuality or nudity is important to our users," she said. "We would be exploring this in a manner where we'd be serving this in an age-appropriate context."

'Harm may outweigh the benefit' if NSFW policy is relaxed, expert says

Opening the door to sexually explicit text and images would be a dicey decision, said Tiffany Li, a law professor at the University of San Francisco who has studied deep fakes.

"The harm may outweigh the benefit," Li said. "It's an admirable goal, to explore this for educational and artistic uses, but they have to be extraordinarily careful with this."

Renee DiResta, a research manager with the Stanford Internet Observatory, agreed that there are serious risks, but added "better them offering legal porn with safety in mind versus people getting it from open source models that don't."

Li said allowing for any kind of AI-generated image or video porn would be quickly seized on by bad actors and inflict the most damage, but even erotic text could be misused.

"Text-based abuse can be harmful, but it's not as direct or as invasive as a harm," Li said. "Maybe it can be used in a romance scam. That could be a problem."

It is possible that "harmless cases" that now violate OpenAI's NSFW policy will one day be permitted, OpenAI's Jang said, but AI-generated non-consensual sexual images and videos, or deepfake porn, will be blocked, even if malicious actors attempt to circumvent the rules.

"If my goal was to create porn," she said. "then I would be working elsewhere."

New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez

Chair, Local Government Committee

( D, WF ) 4th Senate District

Senator Martinez to Host Maternal Mental Health Panel

Monica R. Martinez

May 10, 2024

• Maternal Mental Health
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File Senator Martinez to host maternal mental health panel discussion on May 18, 2024

New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez will host a panel discussion addressing maternal mental health on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in Bay Shore.  The event will feature speakers who specialize in this subject area, including clinicians, therapists, and advocates, who will provide valuable insights for individuals and families navigating the challenges of early parenthood.  Attendees of the “Break the Stigma: Maternal Mental Health Panel Discussion” will also have the opportunity to ask questions of the expert panelists.

Space for this important conversation is limited, please register by Monday, May 13, at www.tinyurl.com/sd4-mmh-panel .  A light breakfast will be provided, and free blood pressure screenings will be available from representatives of Northwell Health’s South Shore University Hospital, who are also co-sponsoring this event.

For more information, please call (631) 341-7111 or email [email protected] .

“Break the Stigma: Maternal Mental Health Panel Discussion” Event Details

Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024 

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 

Location: 1933 Union Boulevard Bay Shore, New York 11706 

Registration: www.tinyurl.com/sd4-mmh-panel (by Monday, May 13, 2024)

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Guest Essay

I Was an Attorney at the D.A.’s Office. This Is What the Trump Case Is Really About.

By Rebecca Roiphe

Ms. Roiphe is a former assistant district attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.

Now that the lawyers are laying out their respective theories of the case in the criminal prosecution of Donald Trump in New York, it would be understandable if people’s heads are spinning. The defense lawyers claimed this is a case about hush money as a legitimate tool in democratic elections, while the prosecutors insisted it is about “a criminal scheme to corrupt the 2016 presidential election.”

Yet this case is not really about election interference, nor is it a politically motivated attempt to criminalize a benign personal deal. Boring as it may sound, it is a case about business integrity.

It’s not surprising that the lawyers on both sides are trying to make this about something sexier. This is a narrative device used to make the jurors and the public side with them, but it has also created confusion. On the one hand, some legal experts claim that the conduct charged in New York was the original election interference. On the other hand, some critics think the criminal case is a witch hunt, and others claim it is trivial at best and at worst the product of selective prosecution.

As someone who worked in the Manhattan district attorney’s office and enforced the laws that Mr. Trump is accused of violating, I stand firmly in neither camp. It is an important and straightforward case, albeit workmanlike and unglamorous. In time, after the smoke created by lawyers has cleared, it will be easy to see why the prosecution is both solid and legitimate.

It would hardly make for a dramatic opening statement or cable news sound bite, but the case is about preventing wealthy people from using their businesses to commit crimes and hide from accountability. Manhattan prosecutors have long considered it their province to ensure the integrity of the financial markets. As Robert Morgenthau, a former Manhattan district attorney, liked to say , “You cannot prosecute crime in the streets without prosecuting crime in the suites.”

Lawmakers in New York, the financial capital of the world, consider access to markets and industry in New York a privilege for businesspeople. It is a felony to abuse that privilege by doctoring records to commit or conceal crimes, even if the businessman never accomplishes the goal and even if the false records never see the light of day. The idea is that an organization’s records should reflect an honest accounting. It is not a crime to make a mistake, but lying is a different story. It is easy to evade accountability by turning a business into a cover, providing a false trail for whichever regulator might care to look. The law ( falsification of business records ) deprives wealthy, powerful businessmen of the ability to do so with impunity, at least when they’re conducting business in the city.

Prosecutors and New York courts have interpreted this law generously, with its general purpose in mind. The element of intent to defraud carries a broad meaning, which is not limited to the intent of cheating someone out of money or property. Further, intent is often proved with circumstantial evidence, as is common in white-collar cases. After presenting evidence, prosecutors ask jurors to use their common sense to infer what the possible intent may be, and New York jurors frequently conclude that a defendant must have gone to the trouble of creating this false paper trail for a reason.

Mr. Trump is accused of creating 11 false invoices, 12 false ledger entries and 11 false checks and check stubs, with the intent to violate federal election laws, state election laws or state tax laws. The number of lies it took to create this false record itself helps prove intent. His defense attorneys will claim that he was merely trying to bury a false story to protect his family from embarrassment. The timing of the payments — immediately after the potentially damaging “Access Hollywood” tape was released and right before the election — makes that claim implausible.

As many have pointed out, Michael Cohen, Mr. Trump’s former lawyer and fixer, is a witness with a remarkable amount of baggage. But as with most business records cases, his testimony will largely add color to the tweets, handwritten notes, bank documents and shell corporations. Documents don’t lie.

More important, jurors are particularly good at applying common sense. Mr. Trump didn’t go to all this trouble just to protect his family members, who might have known about accusations of his involvement with the porn star Stormy Daniels or similar ones. We may never learn which crime the jurors believe Trump was seeking to commit or cover up, but they can still conclude beyond a reasonable doubt that this was his intent.

It is not unusual for lawyers to give narrative arcs to their legal theories, reasons to care about the evidence and animating thoughts that may make jurors more inclined to convict or acquit.

When the jurors deliberate, they will weigh the warring narratives in light of the evidence, and the judge will instruct them in the law. Then the narrative frames should recede into the background. The key is to offer one that is both captivating and closely tied to the facts so that when the jurors put the pieces of evidence together, it is the story they believe.

If one side promises too much, it risks losing the jurors. In their opening remarks, Mr. Trump’s lawyers insisted that he was innocent, that all the witnesses were liars. Such a sweeping theory is a dangerous strategy because if the jurors believe part of the prosecution’s case, just one or two of the witnesses, then the jurors may lose faith in the defense altogether.

For the prosecution, the elements of the crime in this case do not require a finding that Mr. Trump interfered with the 2016 election. Nor does it matter whether he had sex with Ms. Daniels. Instead, the real elements concern the way Mr. Trump used his business for a cover-up. By emphasizing the crime he was intending to conceal rather than the false business records, the prosecution also risks confusing the jury into thinking about whether the lies affected the election. It might lead them to wonder why Mr. Trump wasn’t charged with this alleged election crime by the federal government — a talking point that he has promoted publicly.

Even if the case seems simpler in this light, we are still left with the question: Is it really worth charging a former president for this? While the New York business records law is important, it is no doubt true that the conduct pales in comparison with the effort to overthrow the 2020 election, at issue in the special counsel Jack Smith’s Jan. 6 prosecution of Mr. Trump.

Taking this case on its own terms as a business records case offers a different and arguably more convincing way to defend its legitimacy. It is a simple case that is similar to hundreds of other cases brought in New York. The simplicity and run-of-the-mill nature of the prosecution make it easier to defend against claims of politicization in the following sense: Mr. Trump was a businessman for many years in New York long before he was president. If others would be prosecuted for this conduct and no man is above the law, then he should be, too.

So by all means, listen to the stories that the lawyers tell, soak up the drama of hush-money payments and the alternate universe in which Hillary Clinton won the election. But just as the jurors should ultimately consider the facts and the law, it would be wise for everyone else to focus on what the case is really about.

Rebecca Roiphe, a former assistant district attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, is a law professor at New York Law School.

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