What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement is the first one or two sentences of a paper or essay that inform the reader what the text is about. This statement communicates the main idea or central message that a reader can expect from the paper.

A thesis statement is considered an essential beginning in writing, as it focuses the topic of the content. However, rather than being static, this statement often remains flexible until the paper is complete. Critical information put forth later in the paper may alter or expand the thesis statement through the writing process. Thesis statements are short and detailed, avoiding vague words and generalizations.