How to Develop a Thesis Statement

Developing & Refining a Thesis Statement

For the purposes of this demonstration, we'll continue to follow Megan O'Neil, who has been researching a health issue affecting Americans. Her audience is her fellow students and her teacher. She has narrowed the topic to diabetes and has developed a research question and a preliminary thesis statement. Now, she'll begin to develop her thesis statement. In turn, you can use these steps to develop your own thesis statement. The steps are:

1. Build on Your Research Question and Your Preliminary Thesis Statement
2. Consider Your Purpose and Role
3. Adapt Your Thesis Statement to the Needs and Interests of Your Readers
4. Consider the Scope of Your Thesis Statement

To begin this demonstration, click on the Continue button.