How do I figure out what the thesis of my argument is?

Answer 1

Hi there! The thesis of your argument should be the main thing you want to talk about or essentially argue. It should answer the question for the reader, "so why am I reading this?". The thesis is like the clarifying point in the introduction that sets the tone for your paper. It needs to be strong and clear in order for you and your readers to understand what it is exactly you are trying to argue or are going to talk about. Hope this helps!

Answer 2

My advice is to first write an outline of what you want to argue. After jotting down the main points you want to prove, it's easier to find the thread that connects these points. Don't worry about making your thesis a "three-part thesis" or crafting it so that it prompts a five-paragraph essay format (unless specifically required, of course); the most important thing is that your thesis is an arguable claim and that you can support it with evidence.