Before you can begin to write your thesis statement, you must determine the subject of your essay. If you are writing a paper for class, the professor generally determines the topic. If the professor has not selected a topic, then students should choose a topic that interests them.

To write a good thesis statement, you must consider its essential functions. A thesis statement

• narrows the focus of your essay.
• shows the purpose of your essay.
• can provide a preview of your essay's arrangement.

When writing a thesis statement, avoid

• making a too broad or all-encompassing statement.
• announcing your thesis statement as the thesis statement (Ex. "My thesis statement is that . . .).
• altering your research to fit your thesis statement. Remember that you can always change your thesis statement if you determine that your research does not support your original thesis statement.