Source: Kirszner, Laurie G. and Stephen R. Mandell, Patterns for College Writing: A Rhetorical Reader and Guide, Brief Edition, Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2015, 65-86.

This is another long episode. A highly condensed summary of essential information below:

Subjects are general areas of focus, while topics are specific aspects within those subjects. To narrow our focus, we choose a topic within our subject, such as examining pencils through their historical impact or modern manufacturing methods. A thesis is a clear, focused opinion on a topic, guiding the argument. A thesis statement includes the thesis, main supporting points, and a roadmap of the paper’s structure. An introductory paragraph usually concludes with the thesis statement, following a structure that may include a hook, counterargument, support, and the paper’s structure.