Thesis Statements and Topic Sentences - Carnegie Mellon University

The Thesis Statements and Topic Sentences at Carnegie Mellon University are used to provide a clear and concise focus for an essay or research paper. They help to guide the reader and establish the main idea or argument of the document.

The students who write research papers and essays at Carnegie Mellon University are responsible for creating their own thesis statements and topic sentences.

FAQ

Q: What is a thesis statement?
A: A thesis statement is a clear and concise statement that presents the main argument or claim of an essay or research paper.

Q: What is the purpose of a thesis statement?
A: The purpose of a thesis statement is to guide the reader and provide a focus for the essay or research paper.

Q: What is a topic sentence?
A: A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main idea or point of a paragraph.

Q: What is the difference between a thesis statement and a topic sentence?
A: A thesis statement presents the main argument or claim of an entire essay or research paper, while a topic sentence expresses the main idea of a specific paragraph.

Q: What is the importance of having a thesis statement and topic sentences?
A: Having a thesis statement and topic sentences helps to organize and structure an essay or research paper, providing a clear roadmap for the reader.