How To Find a Thesis in an Article
Aaren Riggs
Finding the thesis of an article is crucial for understanding its main argument or point. The thesis is the central idea that the author is trying to convey. Here are some steps to help you identify the thesis in an article:
Read the Title: Start by reading the title of the article. Titles often provide a glimpse of the main idea or focus of the piece.
Read the Introduction: The thesis is usually stated in the introduction, often in the last sentence or two. Look for a clear and concise statement that outlines the main argument or purpose of the article.
Look for Topic Sentences: Each paragraph typically has a topic sentence that expresses the main idea of that paragraph. Identify these topic sentences, and see if you can connect them to form an overall thesis.
Check for Repetition: Authors often repeat key points or arguments throughout the article. If you notice certain ideas being emphasized or repeated, they may be part of the thesis.
Identify Key Terms: Pay attention to key terms or phrases that are repeated or emphasized. These terms often point to the main theme or argument of the article.
Consider the Author's Purpose: Think about why the author wrote the article. What message or argument are they trying to convey? Understanding the author's purpose can help you identify the thesis.
Look at the Conclusion: The thesis may also be restated or summarized in the conclusion. Authors often use the conclusion to reinforce their main point.
Ask Questions: Formulate questions about the article, and see if the answers lead you to a central idea. For example, "What is the author trying to argue or prove?" or "What is the main message of the article?"
Consider the Tone and Language: The language used in the article, as well as the author's tone, can give you clues about the main thesis. Look for language that conveys a strong opinion or argument.
Look for Controversy or Disagreement: Sometimes the thesis involves a controversial or debatable point. If the article presents different viewpoints, the thesis may be found in the author's stance on the issue.
Remember that the thesis may not always be explicitly stated; it might be implied or inferred from the overall content of the article. Additionally, not all articles have a single, clear thesis; some may present multiple ideas or arguments. It's essential to critically analyze the content and context to determine the central theme or argument of the article.
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Check our previous article: How To Find a Thesis in a Paper