thesis statement for two kinds essay

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“Two Kinds” by Amy Tan: Critical Analysis

“Two Kinds” by Amy Tan, an American writer who was born in Oakland, California in 1952, was first published in the literary magazine The Atlantic Monthly in 1989 and later became part of Tan’s debut book, “The Joy Luck Club” in 1991. The story follows the relationship between a Chinese-American mother and her daughter, who struggle to understand each other’s expectations and cultural identities. “Two Kinds” became a widely read and acclaimed piece of literature, and has since been included in numerous anthologies and literature textbooks. Its popularity is due to its poignant exploration of the complexities of immigrant identity and the mother-daughter relationship, themes that resonate with many readers across cultures and generations.

Main Events in “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan

Table of Contents

Immigrant Aspirations: A Chinese immigrant mother, who has experienced profound loss, places her hopes for a better future on her American-born daughter.
The Pursuit of Prodigy Status: The mother believes her daughter possesses the potential for extraordinary success and seeks to mold her into a child prodigy.
Testing and Disillusionment: The mother devises a series of tests to uncover her daughter’s latent talent, but the daughter, increasingly discontented, fails them all.
Resistance and Self-Assertion: The daughter resists her mother’s expectations, and in an act of defiance, cultivates a newfound sense of individuality.
Musical Ambitions: Inspired by a young Chinese piano prodigy on television, the mother focuses on developing her daughter’s musical talent.
Lessons with the Eccentric: The daughter’s piano lessons with the aging, deaf instructor, Mr. Chong, provide an opportunity for subtle rebellion.
The Talent Show Debacle: The daughter’s performance at a public talent show becomes a humiliating failure, exposing the futility of her mother’s efforts.
Missed Expectations: The failed performance seemingly ends the daughter’s forced piano education, only to be met with continued insistence from her mother.
Mother-Daughter Conflict: A pivotal confrontation ensues, with the daughter rejecting her mother’s ambitions and asserting her right to autonomy.
The Crushing of Dreams: The daughter’s declaration shatters her mother’s dreams and marks a turning point in their relationship.

Literary Devices in “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan

Allusion : Amy Tan uses allusions of Shirley Temple and the Bible to underscore her mother’s aspirations for her. Shirley Temple embodies the archetype of the ideal American child, while the biblical reference highlights the potential for redemption through perseverance, a concept central to the mother’s worldview.
Characterization : Tan utilizes rich characterization to imbue her characters with depth and realism. Jing-mei, the protagonist, is portrayed as a complex young girl embodying both obedience and defiance. Her mother emerges as a resolute figure driven by a fierce desire for her daughter’s success.
Conflict : The central conflict between Jing-mei and her mother propels the narrative. Jing-mei yearns for self-determination and resists her mother’s imposed expectations, while her mother is relentless in her pursuit of molding her daughter into a prodigy.
Flashback : Tan masterfully employs flashbacks, allowing Jing-mei to reflect on formative experiences, revealing her motivations and emotional state. This technique adds layers to the storytelling and illuminates the characters’ inner lives.
Foreshadowing : The story’s title, “Two Kinds,” subtly foreshadows the core conflict. Furthermore, the opening mention of a prodigy sets the stage for the mother’s unwavering expectations.
Imagery : Tan’s evocative imagery creates a tangible sense of setting and mood. The depictions of the piano and Jing-mei’s lessons generate an atmosphere of mounting tension and frustration.
Irony : The poignant irony lies in Jing-mei’s adult realization that her mother’s ambitions centered on providing opportunities for success, rather than solely on creating a prodigy.
Metaphor : The piano serves as a powerful metaphor for the mother’s unfulfilled dreams and aspirations. It embodies her hope for Jing-mei to achieve greatness.
Motif : The recurring motif of identity underscores Jing-mei’s struggle for self-definition and her rebellion against the confines placed on her by her mother.
Point of View : The first-person perspective from Jing-mei’s viewpoint grants the reader intimate access to her inner turmoil and evolving understanding.
Repetition : The repeated phrase “only two kinds of daughters” accentuates the rigidity of the mother’s expectations and the limitations imposed on Jing-mei’s sense of self.
Setting : The backdrop of San Francisco’s Chinatown during the 1950s and 1960s infuses the story with historical and cultural context, shaping the characters’ experiences.
Symbolism : The piano transcends its literal meaning, symbolizing the mother’s unattained aspirations. Jing-mei’s failure to master the instrument represents her resistance to externally imposed expectations.
Theme : The overarching theme explores the complexities of forging one’s identity while navigating familial and societal pressures.

Characterization in “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan

Major characters:.

Jing-mei Woo: The protagonist and narrator, a young Chinese-American girl struggling with imposed expectations, cultural identity, and the desire for self-determination. References: “You could be best anything” (mother’s aspiration), “I won’t let her change me…” (inner defiance).
Jing-mei’s Mother: A complex figure driven by unfulfilled dreams and past trauma, projecting her ambitions onto her daughter with a combination of demanding expectations and deep love. References: “Lost everything in China…” (past influencing motivation), “Only two kinds of daughters…” (rigid worldview).

Minor Characters:

Auntie Lindo: Serves as a contrasting figure to Jing-mei’s mother, embodying a different approach to child-rearing with a focus on innate talent. Reference: “She bring home too many trophy…” (emphasizes achievement)
Waverly Jong: A young chess prodigy, symbolizing the fulfillment of the mother’s desires, potentially highlighting the cost of relentless focus on external success. Reference: Waverly’s sullen demeanor during the talent show.
Mr. Chong: The enigmatic, deaf piano instructor. His unconventional teaching methods provide an opportunity for subtle rebellion and underscore the theme of differing perceptions. Reference: Jing-mei finding ways to play poorly despite his dedication.

Major Themes in “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan

Mother-daughter relationship: The story revolves around the relationship between Jing-mei and her mother, who have very different ideas about what Jing-mei’s future should look like. The theme of the mother-daughter relationship highlights the conflict between parents and children, as well as the struggles of growing up and finding one’s own identity.
Cultural assimilation: The story touches on the theme of cultural assimilation as Jing-mei and her mother navigate their lives in America while holding onto their Chinese heritage. Jing-mei’s mother believes that her daughter should strive to become a prodigy in order to succeed in American society, whereas Jing-mei wants to embrace her individuality and find her own path.
The American Dream: The American Dream is a key theme in the story as Jing-mei’s mother sees her daughter’s potential to become a prodigy as a way to achieve success in America. The pursuit of the American Dream represents the desire for a better life, but also highlights the sacrifices and challenges that come with trying to achieve it.
Identity and individuality: Jing-mei’s struggle to find her own identity and voice is a recurring theme throughout the story. Jing-mei’s mother wants her daughter to become a prodigy in order to fit in with American society, but Jing-mei resists this pressure and ultimately chooses to embrace her own individuality. The theme of identity and individuality highlights the importance of self-discovery and self-acceptance.

Writing Style in “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan

Vivid Narrative: Tan employs rich imagery and sensory details to create a tangible experience for the reader. Examples: “my hair… an uneven mass of crinkly black fuzz,” “frantic little piano piece with a mesmerizing quality…”
Symbolism and Metaphor:
Tan utilizes these literary devices to convey complex themes. Examples: The piano embodying the mother’s unfulfilled aspirations, “Pleading Child” representing the power dynamic within their relationship.
Tonal Shifts: Tan skillfully blends humor and pathos for emotional impact. Examples: Jing-mei’s initial enthusiasm for potential stardom contrasts with her later defiance: “I pictured this prodigy part of me…” vs. “I won’t let her change me…”
Accessibility: Tan’s language, though descriptive, maintains a conversational tone, fostering a connection between the reader and the characters’ struggles.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan


	Examines gender roles, power dynamics, and female agency within literature	* Exploration of the mother-daughter dynamic as a reflection of societal expectations and constraints placed on women. * Analysis of Jing-mei’s struggle for self-determination as a form of resistance against patriarchal norms.
	Emphasizes the reader’s active role in constructing meaning from a text.	* Investigation of how individual readers may interpret the motivations of the mother or relate to the themes of familial pressure based on personal experiences. * Analysis of how the story’s open-ended conclusion can lead to differing interpretations.
	Explores the influence of unconscious desires, motivations, and repressed memories on characters’ actions.	* Examination of the mother’s fixation on her daughter’s success as a potential manifestation of her own unfulfilled dreams and past traumas. * Exploration of Jing-Mei’s rebelliousness as a subconscious response to control and suppressed individuality.
	Focuses on the impact of colonialism and imperialism on literature, particularly works by authors from marginalized cultures.	* Analysis of how the immigrant experience shapes the mother’s aspirations and her pursuit of the American Dream for her daughter. * Consideration of how the story critiques the notion of assimilation by highlighting the importance of cultural heritage and individual identity.

Essay Topics, Questions and Thesis Statements about “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan

Topic 1: The Price of Unrealistic Expectations

Question: How does Amy Tan’s “Two Kinds” illustrate the destructive impact of unfulfilled parental expectations on a child’s development of self?
Thesis Statement: In “Two Kinds”, Tan reveals the damaging consequences of unrealistic parental ambition; Jing-mei’s thwarted sense of identity and the strained mother-daughter relationship highlight the harmful effects of prioritizing external validation over nurturing individual potential.

Topic 2: The Immigrant Experience and the American Dream

Question: To what extent does “Two Kinds” explore the complexities of the immigrant experience and differing interpretations of the American Dream?
Thesis Statement: “Two Kinds” offers a nuanced perspective on the immigrant experience; showcasing the mother’s pursuit of traditional markers of success as a means of overcoming past trauma, while Jing-mei’s resistance highlights the importance of self-determination within the framework of a new cultural landscape.

Topic 3: The Power of Symbolism

Question: How does Amy Tan employ symbolism in “Two Kinds” to illuminate the story’s central themes?
Thesis Statement: Tan masterfully utilizes symbols such as the piano, the sheet music, and even the title “Two Kinds” to deepen the story’s exploration of identity, conflict, and the complex power dynamics between Jing-mei and her mother.

Topic 4: Finding One’s Voice

Question: In what ways does “Two Kinds” depict the struggle to forge personal identity amidst conflicting cultural and familial pressures?
Thesis Statement: “Two Kinds” chronicles Jing-mei’s transformative journey. Through defiance and self-discovery, she ultimately embraces her unique identity, shattering the limitations imposed by both her mother and broader societal expectations.

Short Question-Answer about “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan

Question 1: How does the story depict the conflict between Jing-mei and her mother?

Answer: The conflict hinges on their differing views of success and potential. Jing-mei’s mother, a Chinese immigrant, believes in the American Dream and pushes Jing-mei towards prodigy status (“Only you can decide between freedom and rules” ). Jing-mei resists this pressure, desiring a life of her own choosing.

Question 2: What is the significance of the piano in the story?

Answer: The piano acts as a symbol of both their clashes and potential connection. Initially, it represents her mother’s imposed dreams, but later it holds the potential for reconciliation. After Jing-mei’s mother’s death, rediscovering the piano pieces (“Pleading Child” and “Perfectly Contented”) helps her understand her mother’s complex motivations.

Question 3: How does Jing-mei’s attitude towards her mother change throughout the story?

Answer: Jing-mei’s attitude shifts from childish defiance to resentment then finally to understanding. Initially, she rebels (“I won’t let her change me”). Eventually, she recognizes the sacrifices her mother made (“…part of me knew I had to give in and do more than say thanks.”). After her mother’s death, she finds a bittersweet understanding of their relationship.

Question 4: How does the theme of cultural identity play out in the story?

Answer: The story explores the clash between Jing-mei’s mother’s traditional Chinese values and the American emphasis on individualism. Her mother believes in limitless potential (“You could be anything you want”). Jing-mei must reconcile her American sense of self with her mother’s expectations shaped by her immigrant background.

Literary Works Similar to “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan

The Joy Luck Club (also by Amy Tan): Explores the lives and relationships of four Chinese-American families, highlighting intergenerational conflict and cultural heritage.
The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri: Traces the journey of a Bengali-American boy struggling with his dual cultural identity and the weight of his name.
The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros: A coming-of-age story of a young Mexican-American girl finding her voice in a challenging environment.
Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri: A collection of short stories navigating cultural differences and the complexities of immigrant experiences.

Nonfiction/Memoir:

The Woman Warrior by Maxine Hong Kingston: Blends Chinese myth and autobiography to explore what it means to be a Chinese-American woman.
Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua: A controversial memoir about raising children using a strict, traditional Chinese parenting style.

Articles (From Scholarly Journals)

Li, Stephanie. “Mothers and Daughters in Amy Tan’s ‘Two Kinds’.” Explicator , vol. 75, no. 4, 2017, pp. 236-239. Project Muse , doi:10.1080/00144940.2017.1345928.
Xiao, Jing. “Two Kinds of Daughters: Mother-Daughter Relationships in Amy Tan’s Works.” Canadian Social Science , vol. 5, no 6, 2009, pp. 72-78.
LitCharts. “Two Kinds.” LitCharts , https://www.litcharts.com/lit/the-joy-luck-club
The Amy Tan Foundation. https://lannan.org/bios/amy-tan (Author’s official website – may have essays or critical analyses)

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"Two Kinds": Literary Analysis of Amy Tan's Novel

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The Story “Two Kinds” by Amy Tan Essay

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The intention of Amy Tan in the story Two Kinds was to present her problem through her personal experience and leave the judgment to the reader. Though the narrator’s mother experiences tragedies in her life, she has the energy to forge on and impart her dreams into her daughter. Although the narrator is unable to fulfill her mother’s expectations, the aspect of maintaining two diverse cultures especially as an immigrant is almost unachievable to many but she succeeds.

The title Two Kinds refers to different types people in the society. In real life, there are people who are always determined to achieve a certain goal in life, and there are those who do not have such ambitions.

For instance, with her mother’s inspiration, the narrator’s dynamicity enables her to change her goals from being a Chinese Shirley Temple to a pianist. As the story opens, the narrator says, “My mother believed you could be anything you wanted to be in America” (Tan, 1989, p. 405), while in the last paragraph she realizes how it is easy to play the piano yet she had failed earlier.

Therefore, through the reconnection of the paragraphs, the author enables the reader to conclude that the narrator could be famous if she had followed her mother’s advice. Furthermore, the author’s description of the Chinese mother’s suffering excludes her personal feelings.

Due to the strained relationship with her mother, the author’s feelings to her mother’s suffering might be real and thus an effective technique in using first person narration. On the other hand, if another person retells the story he/she will explicitly describe the mother’s suffering while sympathizing with her.

Amy’s piano is the major symbol in the story. Although she had earlier turned it down, she eventually appreciates and plays it after the death of her mother. In this context, the piano symbolizes the care or love, which never existed between the mother and her daughter, the kid.

Nevertheless, after playing the piano in her adulthood, Amy realizes the love she had for her mother especially through her childhood songs. Through her mother’s death, the narrator starts to appreciate the Chinese culture because she treasures all the Chinese clothes/jewels her mother had; she actually keeps them away safely.

Moreover, the author realizes she belongs to the two cultures and easily plays the piano, which had been a problem during childhood. She learns the power of appreciation and hard work immediately after her mother’s death. Finally, the narrator’s ability to play piano in adulthood shows that her childhood failure was due to her poor attitude towards her mother.

Personally, the aspect of a person maintaining his/her culture away from home is not easy. American lifestyle, food, religion, and language differ greatly from the Chinese culture. When my cousin migrated to America in the early 1990s, he had to learn English and accept the American lifestyle, which differs greatly from the Arabic culture he was accustomed.

Though he had a hard time, flexibility, and dynamicity are some of the qualities that made him adapt to the new environment. Finally, the author’s experience encourages all the immigrants especially in America to maintain their culture. Though not easy through literature, she encourages the immigrants to embrace their culture, which seems to be a problem for all minor races living in the United States.

In summary, because of disobedience, the narrator is unable to live to her mother’s expectation but when she becomes an adult, she learns to appreciate/love her mother and the Chinese culture. Through her literary ideas, the author calls for dynamicity in all immigrants in the world.

Tan, A. (1989). Two Kinds. In J. E. Gardner, B. Lawn, J. Ridl, & P. Schakel, Literature: A Portable Anthology , (pp. 405-414). Boston, New York: Bedford/St. Martin’s.

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How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on January 11, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on August 15, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . It usually comes near the end of your introduction .

Your thesis will look a bit different depending on the type of essay you’re writing. But the thesis statement should always clearly state the main idea you want to get across. Everything else in your essay should relate back to this idea.

You can write your thesis statement by following four simple steps:

Start with a question
Write your initial answer
Develop your answer
Refine your thesis statement

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What is a thesis statement, placement of the thesis statement, step 1: start with a question, step 2: write your initial answer, step 3: develop your answer, step 4: refine your thesis statement, types of thesis statements, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis statements.

A thesis statement summarizes the central points of your essay. It is a signpost telling the reader what the essay will argue and why.

The best thesis statements are:

Concise: A good thesis statement is short and sweet—don’t use more words than necessary. State your point clearly and directly in one or two sentences.
Contentious: Your thesis shouldn’t be a simple statement of fact that everyone already knows. A good thesis statement is a claim that requires further evidence or analysis to back it up.
Coherent: Everything mentioned in your thesis statement must be supported and explained in the rest of your paper.

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The thesis statement generally appears at the end of your essay introduction or research paper introduction .

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts and among young people more generally is hotly debated. For many who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education: the internet facilitates easier access to information, exposure to different perspectives, and a flexible learning environment for both students and teachers.

You should come up with an initial thesis, sometimes called a working thesis , early in the writing process . As soon as you’ve decided on your essay topic , you need to work out what you want to say about it—a clear thesis will give your essay direction and structure.

You might already have a question in your assignment, but if not, try to come up with your own. What would you like to find out or decide about your topic?

For example, you might ask:

After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process .

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Now you need to consider why this is your answer and how you will convince your reader to agree with you. As you read more about your topic and begin writing, your answer should get more detailed.

In your essay about the internet and education, the thesis states your position and sketches out the key arguments you’ll use to support it.

The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education because it facilitates easier access to information.

In your essay about braille, the thesis statement summarizes the key historical development that you’ll explain.

The invention of braille in the 19th century transformed the lives of blind people, allowing them to participate more actively in public life.

A strong thesis statement should tell the reader:

Why you hold this position
What they’ll learn from your essay
The key points of your argument or narrative

The final thesis statement doesn’t just state your position, but summarizes your overall argument or the entire topic you’re going to explain. To strengthen a weak thesis statement, it can help to consider the broader context of your topic.

These examples are more specific and show that you’ll explore your topic in depth.

Your thesis statement should match the goals of your essay, which vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing:

In an argumentative essay , your thesis statement should take a strong position. Your aim in the essay is to convince your reader of this thesis based on evidence and logical reasoning.
In an expository essay , you’ll aim to explain the facts of a topic or process. Your thesis statement doesn’t have to include a strong opinion in this case, but it should clearly state the central point you want to make, and mention the key elements you’ll explain.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

It gives your writing direction and focus.
It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

Ask a question about your topic .
Write your initial answer.
Develop your answer by including reasons.
Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

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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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Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements

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Tips for Writing Your Thesis Statement

1. Determine what kind of paper you are writing:

An analytical paper breaks down an issue or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and evaluation to the audience.
An expository (explanatory) paper explains something to the audience.
An argumentative paper makes a claim about a topic and justifies this claim with specific evidence. The claim could be an opinion, a policy proposal, an evaluation, a cause-and-effect statement, or an interpretation. The goal of the argumentative paper is to convince the audience that the claim is true based on the evidence provided.

If you are writing a text that does not fall under these three categories (e.g., a narrative), a thesis statement somewhere in the first paragraph could still be helpful to your reader.

2. Your thesis statement should be specific—it should cover only what you will discuss in your paper and should be supported with specific evidence.

3. The thesis statement usually appears at the end of the first paragraph of a paper.

4. Your topic may change as you write, so you may need to revise your thesis statement to reflect exactly what you have discussed in the paper.

Thesis Statement Examples

Example of an analytical thesis statement:

The paper that follows should:

Explain the analysis of the college admission process
Explain the challenge facing admissions counselors

Example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement:

Explain how students spend their time studying, attending class, and socializing with peers

Example of an argumentative thesis statement:

Present an argument and give evidence to support the claim that students should pursue community projects before entering college

Developing a Thesis Statement

Many papers you write require developing a thesis statement. In this section you’ll learn what a thesis statement is and how to write one.

Keep in mind that not all papers require thesis statements . If in doubt, please consult your instructor for assistance.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement . . .

Makes an argumentative assertion about a topic; it states the conclusions that you have reached about your topic.
Makes a promise to the reader about the scope, purpose, and direction of your paper.
Is focused and specific enough to be “proven” within the boundaries of your paper.
Is generally located near the end of the introduction ; sometimes, in a long paper, the thesis will be expressed in several sentences or in an entire paragraph.
Identifies the relationships between the pieces of evidence that you are using to support your argument.

Not all papers require thesis statements! Ask your instructor if you’re in doubt whether you need one.

Identify a topic

Your topic is the subject about which you will write. Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic; or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper.

Consider what your assignment asks you to do

Inform yourself about your topic, focus on one aspect of your topic, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts, generate a topic from an assignment.

Below are some possible topics based on sample assignments.

Sample assignment 1

Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II.

Identified topic

Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis

This topic avoids generalities such as “Spain” and “World War II,” addressing instead on Franco’s role (a specific aspect of “Spain”) and the diplomatic relations between the Allies and Axis (a specific aspect of World War II).

Sample assignment 2

Analyze one of Homer’s epic similes in the Iliad.

The relationship between the portrayal of warfare and the epic simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64.

This topic focuses on a single simile and relates it to a single aspect of the Iliad ( warfare being a major theme in that work).

Developing a Thesis Statement–Additional information

Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic, or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper. You’ll want to read your assignment carefully, looking for key terms that you can use to focus your topic.

Sample assignment: Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II Key terms: analyze, Spain’s neutrality, World War II

After you’ve identified the key words in your topic, the next step is to read about them in several sources, or generate as much information as possible through an analysis of your topic. Obviously, the more material or knowledge you have, the more possibilities will be available for a strong argument. For the sample assignment above, you’ll want to look at books and articles on World War II in general, and Spain’s neutrality in particular.

As you consider your options, you must decide to focus on one aspect of your topic. This means that you cannot include everything you’ve learned about your topic, nor should you go off in several directions. If you end up covering too many different aspects of a topic, your paper will sprawl and be unconvincing in its argument, and it most likely will not fulfull the assignment requirements.

For the sample assignment above, both Spain’s neutrality and World War II are topics far too broad to explore in a paper. You may instead decide to focus on Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis , which narrows down what aspects of Spain’s neutrality and World War II you want to discuss, as well as establishes a specific link between those two aspects.

Before you go too far, however, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts. Try to avoid topics that already have too much written about them (i.e., “eating disorders and body image among adolescent women”) or that simply are not important (i.e. “why I like ice cream”). These topics may lead to a thesis that is either dry fact or a weird claim that cannot be supported. A good thesis falls somewhere between the two extremes. To arrive at this point, ask yourself what is new, interesting, contestable, or controversial about your topic.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times . Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Derive a main point from topic

Once you have a topic, you will have to decide what the main point of your paper will be. This point, the “controlling idea,” becomes the core of your argument (thesis statement) and it is the unifying idea to which you will relate all your sub-theses. You can then turn this “controlling idea” into a purpose statement about what you intend to do in your paper.

Look for patterns in your evidence

Compose a purpose statement.

Consult the examples below for suggestions on how to look for patterns in your evidence and construct a purpose statement.

Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis
Franco turned to the Allies when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from the Axis

Possible conclusion:

Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: Franco’s desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power.

Purpose statement

This paper will analyze Franco’s diplomacy during World War II to see how it contributed to Spain’s neutrality.

The simile compares Simoisius to a tree, which is a peaceful, natural image.
The tree in the simile is chopped down to make wheels for a chariot, which is an object used in warfare.

At first, the simile seems to take the reader away from the world of warfare, but we end up back in that world by the end.

This paper will analyze the way the simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64 moves in and out of the world of warfare.

Derive purpose statement from topic

To find out what your “controlling idea” is, you have to examine and evaluate your evidence . As you consider your evidence, you may notice patterns emerging, data repeated in more than one source, or facts that favor one view more than another. These patterns or data may then lead you to some conclusions about your topic and suggest that you can successfully argue for one idea better than another.

For instance, you might find out that Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis, but when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from them, he turned to the Allies. As you read more about Franco’s decisions, you may conclude that Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: his desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power. Based on this conclusion, you can then write a trial thesis statement to help you decide what material belongs in your paper.

Sometimes you won’t be able to find a focus or identify your “spin” or specific argument immediately. Like some writers, you might begin with a purpose statement just to get yourself going. A purpose statement is one or more sentences that announce your topic and indicate the structure of the paper but do not state the conclusions you have drawn . Thus, you might begin with something like this:

This paper will look at modern language to see if it reflects male dominance or female oppression.
I plan to analyze anger and derision in offensive language to see if they represent a challenge of society’s authority.

At some point, you can turn a purpose statement into a thesis statement. As you think and write about your topic, you can restrict, clarify, and refine your argument, crafting your thesis statement to reflect your thinking.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Compose a draft thesis statement

If you are writing a paper that will have an argumentative thesis and are having trouble getting started, the techniques in the table below may help you develop a temporary or “working” thesis statement.

Begin with a purpose statement that you will later turn into a thesis statement.

Assignment: Discuss the history of the Reform Party and explain its influence on the 1990 presidential and Congressional election.

Purpose Statement: This paper briefly sketches the history of the grassroots, conservative, Perot-led Reform Party and analyzes how it influenced the economic and social ideologies of the two mainstream parties.

Question-to-Assertion

If your assignment asks a specific question(s), turn the question(s) into an assertion and give reasons why it is true or reasons for your opinion.

Assignment : What do Aylmer and Rappaccini have to be proud of? Why aren’t they satisfied with these things? How does pride, as demonstrated in “The Birthmark” and “Rappaccini’s Daughter,” lead to unexpected problems?

Beginning thesis statement: Alymer and Rappaccinni are proud of their great knowledge; however, they are also very greedy and are driven to use their knowledge to alter some aspect of nature as a test of their ability. Evil results when they try to “play God.”

Write a sentence that summarizes the main idea of the essay you plan to write.

Main idea: The reason some toys succeed in the market is that they appeal to the consumers’ sense of the ridiculous and their basic desire to laugh at themselves.

Make a list of the ideas that you want to include; consider the ideas and try to group them.

nature = peaceful
war matériel = violent (competes with 1?)
need for time and space to mourn the dead
war is inescapable (competes with 3?)

Use a formula to arrive at a working thesis statement (you will revise this later).

although most readers of _______ have argued that _______, closer examination shows that _______.
_______ uses _______ and _____ to prove that ________.
phenomenon x is a result of the combination of __________, __________, and _________.

What to keep in mind as you draft an initial thesis statement

Beginning statements obtained through the methods illustrated above can serve as a framework for planning or drafting your paper, but remember they’re not yet the specific, argumentative thesis you want for the final version of your paper. In fact, in its first stages, a thesis statement usually is ill-formed or rough and serves only as a planning tool.

As you write, you may discover evidence that does not fit your temporary or “working” thesis. Or you may reach deeper insights about your topic as you do more research, and you will find that your thesis statement has to be more complicated to match the evidence that you want to use.

You must be willing to reject or omit some evidence in order to keep your paper cohesive and your reader focused. Or you may have to revise your thesis to match the evidence and insights that you want to discuss. Read your draft carefully, noting the conclusions you have drawn and the major ideas which support or prove those conclusions. These will be the elements of your final thesis statement.

Sometimes you will not be able to identify these elements in your early drafts, but as you consider how your argument is developing and how your evidence supports your main idea, ask yourself, “ What is the main point that I want to prove/discuss? ” and “ How will I convince the reader that this is true? ” When you can answer these questions, then you can begin to refine the thesis statement.

Refine and polish the thesis statement

To get to your final thesis, you’ll need to refine your draft thesis so that it’s specific and arguable.

Ask if your draft thesis addresses the assignment
Question each part of your draft thesis
Clarify vague phrases and assertions
Investigate alternatives to your draft thesis

Consult the example below for suggestions on how to refine your draft thesis statement.

Sample Assignment

Choose an activity and define it as a symbol of American culture. Your essay should cause the reader to think critically about the society which produces and enjoys that activity.

Ask The phenomenon of drive-in facilities is an interesting symbol of american culture, and these facilities demonstrate significant characteristics of our society.This statement does not fulfill the assignment because it does not require the reader to think critically about society.

Drive-ins are an interesting symbol of American culture because they represent Americans’ significant creativity and business ingenuity.

Among the types of drive-in facilities familiar during the twentieth century, drive-in movie theaters best represent American creativity, not merely because they were the forerunner of later drive-ins and drive-throughs, but because of their impact on our culture: they changed our relationship to the automobile, changed the way people experienced movies, and changed movie-going into a family activity.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast-food establishments, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize America’s economic ingenuity, they also have affected our personal standards.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast- food restaurants, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize (1) Americans’ business ingenuity, they also have contributed (2) to an increasing homogenization of our culture, (3) a willingness to depersonalize relationships with others, and (4) a tendency to sacrifice quality for convenience.

This statement is now specific and fulfills all parts of the assignment. This version, like any good thesis, is not self-evident; its points, 1-4, will have to be proven with evidence in the body of the paper. The numbers in this statement indicate the order in which the points will be presented. Depending on the length of the paper, there could be one paragraph for each numbered item or there could be blocks of paragraph for even pages for each one.

Complete the final thesis statement

The bottom line.

As you move through the process of crafting a thesis, you’ll need to remember four things:

Context matters! Think about your course materials and lectures. Try to relate your thesis to the ideas your instructor is discussing.
As you go through the process described in this section, always keep your assignment in mind . You will be more successful when your thesis (and paper) responds to the assignment than if it argues a semi-related idea.
Your thesis statement should be precise, focused, and contestable ; it should predict the sub-theses or blocks of information that you will use to prove your argument.
Make sure that you keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Change your thesis as your paper evolves, because you do not want your thesis to promise more than your paper actually delivers.

In the beginning, the thesis statement was a tool to help you sharpen your focus, limit material and establish the paper’s purpose. When your paper is finished, however, the thesis statement becomes a tool for your reader. It tells the reader what you have learned about your topic and what evidence led you to your conclusion. It keeps the reader on track–well able to understand and appreciate your argument.

Writing Process and Structure

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Getting Started with Your Paper

Interpreting Writing Assignments from Your Courses

Generating Ideas for

Creating an Argument

Thesis vs. Purpose Statements

Architecture of Arguments

Working with Sources

Quoting and Paraphrasing Sources

Using Literary Quotations

Citing Sources in Your Paper

Drafting Your Paper

Generating Ideas for Your Paper

Introductions

Paragraphing

Developing Strategic Transitions

Conclusions

Revising Your Paper

Peer Reviews

Reverse Outlines

Revising an Argumentative Paper

Revision Strategies for Longer Projects

Finishing Your Paper

Twelve Common Errors: An Editing Checklist

How to Proofread your Paper

Writing Collaboratively

Collaborative and Group Writing

While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.

This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.

Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence)

Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.

This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.

Arguable thesis with analytical claim

While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.

This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.

Arguable thesis with normative claim

Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.

This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.

Questions to ask about your thesis

Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?
Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?
Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?
Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?
Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
picture_as_pdf Thesis

How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement

The important sentence expresses your central assertion or argument

arabianEye / Getty Images

Writing Research Papers
Writing Essays
English Grammar
M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

A thesis statement provides the foundation for your entire research paper or essay. This statement is the central assertion that you want to express in your essay. A successful thesis statement is one that is made up of one or two sentences clearly laying out your central idea and expressing an informed, reasoned answer to your research question.

Usually, the thesis statement will appear at the end of the first paragraph of your paper. There are a few different types, and the content of your thesis statement will depend upon the type of paper you’re writing.

Key Takeaways: Writing a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement gives your reader a preview of your paper's content by laying out your central idea and expressing an informed, reasoned answer to your research question.
Thesis statements will vary depending on the type of paper you are writing, such as an expository essay, argument paper, or analytical essay.
Before creating a thesis statement, determine whether you are defending a stance, giving an overview of an event, object, or process, or analyzing your subject

Expository Essay Thesis Statement Examples

An expository essay "exposes" the reader to a new topic; it informs the reader with details, descriptions, or explanations of a subject. If you are writing an expository essay , your thesis statement should explain to the reader what she will learn in your essay. For example:

The United States spends more money on its military budget than all the industrialized nations combined.
Gun-related homicides and suicides are increasing after years of decline.
Hate crimes have increased three years in a row, according to the FBI.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increases the risk of stroke and arterial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).

These statements provide a statement of fact about the topic (not just opinion) but leave the door open for you to elaborate with plenty of details. In an expository essay, you don't need to develop an argument or prove anything; you only need to understand your topic and present it in a logical manner. A good thesis statement in an expository essay always leaves the reader wanting more details.

Types of Thesis Statements

Before creating a thesis statement, it's important to ask a few basic questions, which will help you determine the kind of essay or paper you plan to create:

Are you defending a stance in a controversial essay ?
Are you simply giving an overview or describing an event, object, or process?
Are you conducting an analysis of an event, object, or process?

In every thesis statement , you will give the reader a preview of your paper's content, but the message will differ a little depending on the essay type .

Argument Thesis Statement Examples

If you have been instructed to take a stance on one side of a controversial issue, you will need to write an argument essay . Your thesis statement should express the stance you are taking and may give the reader a preview or a hint of your evidence. The thesis of an argument essay could look something like the following:

Self-driving cars are too dangerous and should be banned from the roadways.
The exploration of outer space is a waste of money; instead, funds should go toward solving issues on Earth, such as poverty, hunger, global warming, and traffic congestion.
The U.S. must crack down on illegal immigration.
Street cameras and street-view maps have led to a total loss of privacy in the United States and elsewhere.

These thesis statements are effective because they offer opinions that can be supported by evidence. If you are writing an argument essay, you can craft your own thesis around the structure of the statements above.

Analytical Essay Thesis Statement Examples

In an analytical essay assignment, you will be expected to break down a topic, process, or object in order to observe and analyze your subject piece by piece. Examples of a thesis statement for an analytical essay include:

The criminal justice reform bill passed by the U.S. Senate in late 2018 (" The First Step Act ") aims to reduce prison sentences that disproportionately fall on nonwhite criminal defendants.
The rise in populism and nationalism in the U.S. and European democracies has coincided with the decline of moderate and centrist parties that have dominated since WWII.
Later-start school days increase student success for a variety of reasons.

Because the role of the thesis statement is to state the central message of your entire paper, it is important to revisit (and maybe rewrite) your thesis statement after the paper is written. In fact, it is quite normal for your message to change as you construct your paper.

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How to write an IELTS thesis statement.

Ielts essay introductions and thesis statements..

updated: July 27th 2022. When writing the introduction of an IELTS essay there are two steps that need to be taken. Paraphrase the task question and write a Thesis Statement . If the question asks for an opinion then it must be in the thesis statement. It depends on the type of essay you are writing as they are not all the same. It is advisable to write a thesis in the introduction for every type of essay. A good thesis statement can help you get a good band score in task response in the writing section.

The thesis statement tells the examiner what the essay is going to be about and the conclusion of the essay paraphrases the thesis statement. Some teachers have other views and say that a thesis statement is not needed. There are different approaches to writing an IELTS essay. If you have 10 IELTS teachers in a room there will most likely be 10 different opinions on the matter.

In my opinion, a thesis statement is logical and shows the reader what to expect in the rest of the essay. However, do not confuse Thesis statements with memorised outline sentences. See this link here about that.

What exactly is a thesis statement?

‘A thesis statement tells the reader what your essay is going to be about in one or two sentences. It usually includes your opinion or states your position’

Don’t use rhetorical questions in the thesis. The thesis statement is not a question.
Make it clear what you are going to write about briefly (1 or 2 sentences)
If it’s an opinion essay, give 2 reasons for your opinion in the thesis statement.
The thesis statement comes after paraphrasing the question.
Do not write an outline sentence, these look like a cliche and memorised. Examiners are trained to spot memorised phrases, for instance: ‘ This essay would like to explore reasons for this in more detail’
Don’t confuse thesis statements with the above outline sentence. Outline sentences are for very long academic essays. See this lesson here on phrases to avoid.

For each essay type this is what should be in the Thesis statement:

1. Opinion essays: write 2 reasons for your opinion. 2. Advantage disadvantage essays: state the advantage and the disadvantage, 3. Problem solution essays: briefly state 1 or 2 problems and possible solutions. 4 . Discussion essays: after paraphrasing both sides of the argument, give your opinion with a reason why you hold that view. 5. Two part question essays: answer the 1st question then answer the 2nd question briefly.

First you have to identify what kind of essay it is.

The first step before you begin to write is to make sure you understand the question, then identify what kind of essay this will be. There are 5 variations on an IELTS discursive essay click here to see a lesson on this .

Before you write the thesis statement you will need to paraphrase the question , click here for a lesson on this. Click here to see how to write a good introduction to a Problem Solution essay.

1. Discussion essay.

This is the Paraphrased introduction with a Thesis statement.

A number of people believe serious crimes need to have a set punishment, whereas others argue that the situation of the crime must be considered. I agree that the circumstances of the crime itself should be taken into account because every case is different.

Thesis Statement: ‘ I agree that the circumstances of the crime itself should be taken into account because every case is different’

It is important to give a brief reason for your view, the body paragraphs should expand on this. The examiner can clearly see your position in the introduction. In this essay, my position is that every case is different and a prison sentence would not be appropriate.

Note: For a more academic feel, rather than using a personal pronoun to state your opinion, you could state your position like this below:

This essay agrees that the circumstances of the crime itself should be taken into account because every case is different.

2. Opinon essay.

Again you need to paraphrase the question and then clearly agree or disagree , remember to choose just one side.. the words: ‘To what extent do you agree or disagree’ means how much do you agree/disagree, or how far do you agree/disagree. You should mention the other side of the argument but stick to your own opinion. Balanced essays do not necessarily get a higher band score.

Give 2 reasons for your view in the thesis statement here. This is the Paraphrased introduction with a Thesis statement:

It is argued that society would be better off if every type of advertising was prohibited. I disagree that all advertising should be disallowed as this policy would not benefit society and would negatively impact the economy.

Thesis statement: ‘ I disagree that all advertising should be disallowed as this policy would not benefit societ y and would negatively impact the economy.’

In this thesis statement I have clearly stated why I hold the opinion that advertising should not be banned with 2 reasons (no benefit to society and bad for the economy) Remember to keep the introduction to under 55 words or it will be too long.

As mentioned before, you can use a more academic way to state your view, such as:

This essay disagrees that all advertising should be disallowed because this policy would not benefit society and would have a negative impact on the economy.

3. Advantages disadvantages essay.

This is the Paraphrased introduction with a Thesis statement:

In recent times, people can reside wherever they want in the world because of the progress that has made in technology and transport. The main advantage is the career opportunities that a person can get outside their own country, while a possible downside would be the stress of adjusting to living in a different culture.

Thesis statement: ‘ The main advantage is the career opportunities that a person can get outside their own country, while a possible downside would be the stress of adjusting to living in a different culture.’

Try keeping the whole introduction under 55 words as you don’t want it to look like a body paragraph. You can write about 2 advantages and 2 disadvantages, but you need to keep the introduction concise.

Another method is to just refer to the advantage and state the disadvantage, such as:

In recent times, people can reside wherever they want in the world because of the progress that has made in technology and transport. Although there are advantages, the downside would be the stress of adjusting to living in a different culture.’

This allows you to keep the thesis statement concise especially if you want to cover two advantages (or disadvantages)

4. Advantages disadvantages outweigh essay (this needs your opinion).

This type of advantage disadvantage essay is special because it asks ‘ Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?’. This means you have to write about what side you think is stronger and reflect that in the essay and also in the thesis statement. You need to state an opinion here.

Some experts argue that children should study a new language at primary school as opposed to secondary school. This essay agrees that the advantages are stronger than the disadvantages because youngsters pick up and master new languages much easier than at a high school age.

Thesis statement: ‘This essay agrees that the advantages are stronger than the disadvantages because youngsters pick up and master new languages much easier than at a high school age .’

I have underlined the reason for my opinion here. Giving a reason for your opinion is important in a thesis statement. The introduction is 44 words long so that will be fine. Remember to also address the other side of the issue in the main body paragraphs, the side you think is weaker.

Another method here is to use this style which is very concise at 32 words but it does not contain a reason for my view.

Some experts argue that youngsters should study a new language at primary school as opposed to secondary school. In my view, the advantages of younger children learning new languages outweigh the disadvantages.

5. Problem solution / causes solution essay.

People living in large cities have to deal with many issues in their day to day lives. The main problems people face are high rental costs and overcrowding. Some possible solutions would be to build more affordable housing and more green spaces.

Thesis statement: ‘ The main problems people face are high rental costs and overcrowding. Some possible solutions would be to build more affordable housing and more green spaces.’

I have listed 2 problems high rents, overcrowding and 2 solutions affordable housing, green spaces . You can choose just one problem and one solution and that would be fine.

6. Two part question (direct question essay).

The world wide web is a huge source of knowledge which has created opportunities for people worldwide to study. However, not all information on the internet can be trusted, so the government needs to put measures in place to protect people from false information.

Thesis statement: ‘ However, not all information on the internet can be trusted, so the government needs to put measures in place to protect people from false information.’

Two part question essays are sometimes called ‘Direct question’ essays. They consist of 2 direct questions in the task question. Sometimes they will ask for your opinion such as: Do you think….? or What do you think…?

If the question asks for the opinion then you must state it. You should briefly answer the 2 questions in the thesis statement then give more detail in the body paragraphs.

Check out the blog posts about how to identify the 5 essay types and also how to paraphrase the question . These are key stages before writing your thesis statement. Make sure your whole introduction is under 55 words or it will be too long.

Take a look here at how to write a good introduction in writing task 2. Now you can try.

Here is a Discussion essay question where you have to give your opinion. Can you write a Thesis statement for it?

Some people believe that the best way to deal with heavy traffic in city centres is for privately owned vehicles to be banned, others however think this is not a realistic solution. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Task question again:

Some people believe that the best way to deal with heavy traffic in city centres is for privately owned vehicles to be banned, others however think this is not a realistic solution. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Paraphrased introduction: Some people argue that prohibiting private cars from city centres is the best way to tackle traffic congestion, whereas others say that this is unrealistic.

Thesis statement: I agree that private vehicles should be banned from city centres and more investment needs to be put into public transportation to alleviate traffic jams.

Full introduction with thesis statement:

Some people argue that prohibiting private cars from city centres is the best way to tackle traffic congestion, whereas others say that this is unrealistic. I agree that private vehicles should be banned from city centres and more investment needs to be put into public transportation to alleviate traffic jams.

Medicine is always a promising field of work, where they always need professionals. These may be completely different professions, but everyone involved in medicine should know a lot and be prepared for various stressful situations (especially when it comes to people’s lives).

If you have chosen this path for yourself, you are ready for the challenges that can await you in medical school. But before that – MCAT. This is the ticket to your cherished profession. But which MCAT scores are considered good? How are they calculated?

Table of Contents:

What is a good MCAT score?

The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized exam required for admission to most medical schools in the United States and Canada. It is an important exam that requires thorough preparation.

The results of this test are valid for 3 years. It’s also vital to remember that you can retake it up to three times in a single testing year, four times over two consecutive years, and seven times in a lifetime.

This exam consists of 4 parts :

Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS)
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior (Emphasizes understanding of the psychological and socio-cultural factors that influence behavior.)

A good MCAT score is the sum of these four parts. Hence, you should prepare yourself to take maximum from everywhere as the competition in medical schools is very high.

How to apply for MCAT?

To apply for the exam, you should first visit the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) website and create an account there. And then there are these steps:

Choose a Test Date and Location: The MCAT is offered multiple times throughout the year at various locations. Check the AAMC website for available dates and testing centers.
Register Early: Seats can fill up quickly, especially in popular locations. It’s advisable to register several months in advance.
Fee: As of 2024, the registration fee for the MCAT is around $330, with additional fees for late registration or changes. Fee assistance is available for eligible applicants through the AAMC Fee Assistance Program.
Prepare Required Documents: Ensure you have valid identification and other required documents for registration and on test day.

How long does the exam take?

The MCAT is a long and fairly rigorous test that takes you a total of 7.5 hours (including breaks). Here’s a breakdown of the time allocation:

Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems: 95 minutes
Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS): 90 minutes
Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems: 95 minutes
Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior: 95 minutes

The duration of the exam itself is approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes. During this time you will have to solve 230 questions. There are no penalties for getting a wrong answer on this test, so even if you’re unsure, it’s worth trying to see if you can get a good MCAT score range through luck.

There are also breaks between exam sections, as well as a longer lunch break. This brings the MCAT total time up to 7.5 hours

Types of questions

There is only one type of question in the MCAT: multiple choice. Each question has several options from which you need to choose the most appropriate option.

AAMC MCAT score report

You can find out how well you did on the test on the official AAMC page. Results are usually available 30-35 days after the test. What kind of result do you get?

The official score report from the Association of American Medical Colleges includes:

Total Score: The combined score of all four sections.
Section Scores: Individual scores for Chemical and Physical Foundations, CARS, Biological and Biochemical Foundations, and Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations.
Confidence Bands: Ranges indicating the likely true score for each section.
Percentile Ranks: Percentiles showing how your scores compare to other test-takers.
Score Profile: A graphical representation of your performance across different sections.

A good MCAT score depends on the medical schools you are aiming for. Generally, the highest MCAT score ranges between 511 and 528 and is considered very good and competitive for top medical schools.

Scores between 503 and 510 are above average and acceptable for many medical schools. Scores between 486 and 502 are average, and while still considered, they may be less competitive. Those below 486 are the lowest MCAT scores and may make getting into most medical schools harder.

Also remember that if you have a low GPA, you will have to score higher on the test to compensate for this deficiency.

You can see data on the acceptance rates of different universities on their websites. Besides, we strongly recommend comparing your grades to your medical school stats. It may allow you to assess your capabilities better.

What else does my med school need?

A good average MCAT score is not the only thing medical school will require of you. To apply to medical school, you need:

Personal statement
Letters of recommendation
Extracurricular activities
Previous volunteer or research activities

Upon admission to the medical college, It’s important to consider all factors, because the admissions committee looks at the big picture: they care not only about your grades, but they also want to learn about you as a person.

But EssayEdge ‘s professional team of editors can help you with your medical school essay and help you truly unleash your potential. They may also give you some tips for the personal statement. They won’t write the texts for you – instead, they will gently guide you in the right direction. They are the ones who can reveal something unique in you that may surprise and catch the eye of the admission committee.

The MCAT is a test that can make up for your poor GPA and make you a successful candidate for medical school. That’s why you should prepare well for this test (230 questions!). Perseverance can certainly help you with this since memorizing such a volume of information is not easy.