1. Identify Your Topic and Research Question:
- Begin by clearly defining the topic of your paper and formulating a focused research question. This question should guide your research and help you develop your three main points.
2. Brainstorm and Analyze Evidence:
- Gather sufficient evidence, research, and information related to your topic.
- Analyze your findings and identify the most relevant and compelling arguments that support your research question.
3. Craft the Thesis Statement:
- State your main argument directly and explicitly in a single sentence.
- The thesis statement should provide a roadmap for your paper's structure and indicate the three main points you will discuss.
- Each of the three points should support your thesis as a whole.
For example, let's assume you're writing a research paper on the effectiveness of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Topic: Effectiveness of Remote Learning During COVID-19
Research Question: "To what extent has remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic affected the academic performance and educational experiences of university students?"
Three-Point Thesis Statement:
"This research examines the impact of remote learning on university students during the COVID-19 pandemic by exploring three key findings: (1) the challenges faced by students in adopting remote learning, (2) the positive outcomes and adjustments made by students and educators, and (3) the long-term implications of remote learning on higher education."
Break down of the Three Points:
- Point 1: Challenges Faced by Students
- Point 2: Positive Outcomes and Adjustments
- Point 3: Long-Term Implications
Remember, your thesis statement should set the stage for your paper and preview the main components of your argument. Each body paragraph in your paper should then focus on presenting evidence and analysis related to one of the three thesis points.