Step 8: Formulate a Thesis Statement

Write Your Topic as a Thesis Statement

Your thesis statement is a sentence or two that says clearly and precisely what your paper will answer, prove, or inform your audience about. It might be an answer to your research question, or it might simply be a way to clearly state the purpose of your research.

Use the information you've gathered thus far to formulate this statement. The development of a thesis assumes there's sufficient evidence to support this thesis.

• A thesis statement could be: Frank Lloyd Wright's design principles, including his use of ornamental detail and his sense of space and texture, opened a new era of American architecture. His work has influenced contemporary residential design.

Choose a Title for Your Paper

The title of your paper may not be exactly the same as your research question or your thesis statement, but it should clearly convey the focus, purpose and meaning of your research.

• A title could be: Frank Lloyd Wright: Key Principles of Design for the Modern Home.

Remember to follow any specific instructions from your instructor.

Research Topic Examples

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