Thesis statement is an indispensable part of academic writing. It serves as a roadmap, guiding the reader throughout the paper. However, a weak or poorly crafted thesis statement can lead to confusion and lack of focus in the writing. The three-story thesis approach, developed by Cheryl Glenn and Melissa Goldthwaite, provides a framework that can help you create a clear, concise, and focused thesis statement. In this article, we will dive into the three-story thesis approach, explore its elements in detail, and provide tips and examples for implementing it in different types of academic writing.
The Three-Story Thesis Approach
The three-story thesis approach consists of three distinct elements, each of which serves a specific purpose:
1. The First Story: Topic Introduction
The first story of the thesis introduces the topic of the paper. It should be engaging and captivating so that the readers get hooked to the content. You should provide relevant background information, contextualize the topic, and establish the scope of the paper. It is an opportunity to set the tone of your writing and pique the interest of your readers.
2. The Second Story: Argument or Analysis
The second story of the thesis presents the argument or analysis of the paper. You should provide a clear and concise statement that summarizes the main argument or analysis of the paper. It is where you provide relevant examples, data and research to support your claims.
3. The Third Story: Conclusion
The third story of the thesis is the conclusion. It is where you wrap up your paper and provide a final statement on your argument. Your conclusion should be compelling and leave the readers wanting more. You should emphasize the most important elements of your argument or analysis.
Using the Three-Story Thesis Approach
The three-story thesis approach is versatile and can be used in different types of academic writing, including research papers, essays, and dissertations. Here are some tips and examples for using the three-story thesis approach in each type of writing:
Research Papers
In research papers, the three-story thesis approach can help you create a clear and focused thesis statement that acts as a roadmap for your research. For example:
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Topic Introduction: “The impact of social media on mental health has been a widely researched topic in the past decade.”
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Argument or Analysis: “This paper will argue that the excessive use of social media is associated with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, especially among young adults.”
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Conclusion: “While social media has undoubtedly revolutionized communication and networking, this paper shows that it is not without negative consequences. It is crucial that we recognize and address the mental health implications of excessive social media use.”
Essays
Using the three-story thesis approach in essays can help you create a clear argument that is easy to follow for the reader. For example:
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Topic Introduction: “The issue of gun control has been a contentious topic in the United States for decades.”
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Argument or Analysis: “This essay will argue that stricter gun control laws and regulations are necessary to reduce gun violence and increase public safety.”
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Conclusion: “While the debate over gun control continues, it is evident that the current regulations are inadequate. This essay shows that stricter measures can help prevent gun violence and improve the lives of citizens.”
Dissertations
Dissertations require a more extensive and detailed approach, and the three-story thesis can keep the writer on track while developing a nuanced argument. For example:
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Topic Introduction: “The purpose of this dissertation is to explore how social network sites can increase the public’s participation in natural disaster warning and response.”
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Argument or Analysis: “This dissertation will argue that social network sites can enhance risk forecasting and early warning for natural disasters by allowing individuals to share and access critical information.”
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Conclusion: “This dissertation provides a framework for understanding how social network sites can play a vital role in disaster management. It is an essential communication tool for the public and disaster management professionals alike.”
Key Takeaways
- The three-story thesis approach provides a framework for creating a clear, concise, and focused thesis statement.
- The first story introduces the topic, the second story presents the argument or analysis, and the third story concludes the thesis statement.
- The three-story thesis approach can be used in different types of academic writing, including research papers, essays, and dissertations.
- Brainstorming and outlining are essential for effective implementation of the three-story thesis approach.
- The three-story thesis approach can make your writing clearer, focused, and more persuasive.
FAQ
Q. How long should a thesis statement be?
A. A thesis statement should be concise and clear. It should be one to two sentences in length and should state the purpose and argument of the paper.
Q. What is the difference between a thesis statement and a research question?
A. A thesis statement is a statement that summarizes the main argument or analysis of the paper. It is declarative and provides a clear roadmap for the paper. A research question, on the other hand, is an inquiry that guides the research and investigation.
Q. Can I use the three-story thesis approach in non-academic writing?
A. Yes, the three-story thesis approach can be used outside of academic writing as well. It is a versatile framework that can be used in different types of writing to create a clear, focused message.