What is a Tentative Thesis Statement?
A tentative thesis statement is a preliminary version of a thesis statement that is subject to change as new information is gathered or as the writer’s ideas develop. It is usually created early in the writing process and serves as a guide for the writer to stay focused on the topic and ensure that their research stays on track.
How?
To create a tentative thesis statement, the writer needs to identify the main topic or issue that they want to explore. They should then conduct some initial research to gather information about the topic and develop a basic understanding of the issue. Based on this research, the writer can formulate a preliminary answer to the research question. The statement should be declarative and concise and capture the main idea of the essay or research paper.
For example: If the topic is « The Effects of Social Media on Teenagers, » the tentative thesis statement could be: « Social media has a negative impact on the mental health of teenagers. »
Why?
A tentative thesis statement is necessary to create a clear focus for the writer’s research and writing. It ensures that the research stays on track and that the writer does not wander off topic. It also helps to ensure that the final thesis statement is well-developed, supported by evidence, and addresses the research question adequately.
Or?
A tentative thesis statement can be used for any writing project, including essays, research papers, and dissertations. It is particularly useful when working on a complex topic or when conducting interviews or surveys to gather data.
For example: In a dissertation on the impact of climate change on agriculture, the writer could use a tentative thesis statement to guide their research, such as: « Climate change has a significant impact on agriculture, affecting crop yields and food security. »
Who?
Other people, situations, things, and materials that can be relevant to the use of a tentative thesis statement include professors, writing tutors, peer reviewers, and online resources. These resources can provide valuable feedback and guidance on how to develop and refine a tentative thesis statement.
For example: A writing tutor could review a student’s tentative thesis statement and provide feedback on how to make it more specific and focused. An online resource such as Purdue OWL can provide guidance on how to create a strong thesis statement.
Additional Questions:
- How does a tentative thesis statement differ from a final thesis statement?
- What are some strategies for refining a tentative thesis statement?
- How does a tentative thesis statement impact the research process?
- Can a tentative thesis statement change as the writing process progresses?
- What are some common errors to avoid when creating a tentative thesis statement?
- How does a tentative thesis statement help to organize research and writing?
- What role does a tentative thesis statement play in the academic writing process?
- How can a writer incorporate feedback from others when refining a tentative thesis statement?
Sources:
- Miller, J. (2019). Writing Your Thesis. Oxford University Press.
- Rosen, L. (2018). Writing Analytically. Cengage Learning.
- Purdue OWL. (2022). Creating a Thesis Statement. Retrieved June 26, 2023.