Constructing and Organizing a Thesis Paper Relax: It’s not that difficult.

1. Constructing and Organizing a Thesis Paper Relax: It’s not that difficult.

2. Basic Five Paragraph Essay Structure • Introduction - containing thesis • Supporting Reason #1 - in great detail • Supporting Reason #2 - in great detail • Supporting Reason #3 - in great detail Conclusion - wrapping up argument • The goal is to outgrow this format.

3. Creating a Thesis • Look for patterns or re-occurrences of ideas in your text that fit your topic. • Think about what all of your pieces of evidence could help to prove. • Write this down as your thesis statement.

4. Crazy Thesis Statements • Your thesis statement could be completely outlandish or seemingly crazy. • If you can convincingly prove it, there is nothing wrong with it. • For instance: if Jamie Greene decides to do her thesis on the evolution of zombies, that is her ridiculous choice.

5. Things to Avoid • The words: “First reason,” “Second reason,” “Third reason, ” and “In conclusion.” • In a well-written paper, each of these things should be completely obvious.

6. The Use of “I” and “We” • Tend to weaken your paper so they should generally be avoided • Example: I think handguns are a danger to society. (sounds like your opinion) • Example: Handguns are a danger to society. (sounds like a fact)

7. The Point of Paragraphs • Divide topics into easily understandable pieces - make sure you indent new paragraphs • All written pieces should have several paragraphs. They show sophistication and organization.

8. Before Writing • You may wish to outline to organize your thoughts. • When you actually write, you have a ready made template to follow.

9. The Introduction Paragraph • Should begin with something to attract the attention of your readers • If necessary, should provide all plot summary and background information. • Should present thesis statement near end of paragraph.

10. Supporting Reason Paragraphs • Limit each paragraph to only one reason • Provide all of your evidence (citations, quotes, etc.) to prove why this reason is true within the paragraph • Explain how this reason helps to prove your thesis before paragraph ends

11. Explaining Your Reasons • The most difficult thing to do • You must present the relationship between your reason and your thesis logically to your readers. • This should make up the bulk of your paper.

12. Transitions • When moving from one supporting reason to the next, think of the relationship between the two reasons. • Start the new paragraph with a transitional word that demonstrates the relationship (“furthermore,” “as opposed to,” etc.).

13. Conclusion Paragraph • Should wrap up your argument - should NOT restate anything from introductory paragraph • Should primarily contain final explanations as to why your thesis is correct (should be taken as fact)

14. First Draft Writing • Just start writing! • Forget about grammar, word choice, etc. - Get something down on the page!