I have to write a thesis statement and a prompt for my research paper and my topic is the Tet Offensive, how do i write a good one? I don't even know where to begin!

Coutney, Not certain what Tet Offensive is but, I Aced Comp class. Secret, lots of research from library, yes you have to get some books and read!! Take most important parts from books, use net for info also. be sure to include plenty of your thoughts and ideas on the subject. Write an awsome conclusion using words such as Furthermore, I believe ... or,Moreover, I think... Use Keys for Writters!! The Bible for thesis statement papers!! Pay great attention to detail, grammar, absolutely no typos! Set up the paper according to what your instructor wants(this is huge for a good grade!!) Follow the format 100% even if you hate it!!Ex: times new roman 10 pt ft etc, etc, The Keys for Writters you may find at library, or you may have one. Each section, will walk you through the steps to writting an awsome paper!! I actually miss College Comp, party compared to College Chem~~!! Good Luck!! Sandy

Sandra,

What a magnificent collection of ideas!
--read, read, read
--write lots, including YOUR OWN ideas
--organize, organize
--pay attention to details
--follow directions "even if you hate it"

I love reading your post because of your clear enthusiasm -- and because you're right!

=)

Courtnee,

For thesis statements:
http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/thesistatement.html
This is one of the very best places I've seen online to help students write good thesis statements. It shows you sentences that aren't thesis statements and how to turn each one into a real thesis statement.

Just remember: Your thesis statement must include factual information plus your position/opinion/stance. Without your position on the topic, it isn't a true thesis statement. So think of this sentence as the angle you want to take on the topic and what you intend to prove by the end of your paper. (If your statement is simply factual, then there's nothing to prove!)

And here are some search results to help you, but Courtnee is right -- the best research is done at your library. If you have problems finding what you need, ask for help from a research librarian.

http://www.google.com/search?aq=f&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=tet+offensive

http://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=tet%20offensive&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&hl=en&tab=ws

Writing a strong thesis statement and a thought-provoking prompt is crucial for a research paper on the Tet Offensive. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you formulate an effective thesis statement and prompt:

1. Start with your research: Begin by conducting thorough research on the Tet Offensive. Obtain a good understanding of the topic, including its historical context, significance, and different perspectives.

2. Identify the key arguments: Analyze your research findings and identify the main arguments or key points related to the Tet Offensive. Consider the causes, consequences, military strategies, political implications, or social impact, among others.

3. Narrow down your focus: Once you have identified the key arguments, narrow down your focus to a specific aspect of the Tet Offensive that you want to explore. This will help you create a focused thesis statement and prompt.

4. Craft your thesis statement: A thesis statement should clearly state the main argument or claim of your research paper. It should be concise, specific, and debatable. Consider including the main aspect you are focusing on, your stance or analysis, and the significance of your argument. For example:

- "The Tet Offensive of 1968 shattered the American public's confidence in the Vietnam War and marked a turning point in public opinion towards the conflict."
- "Despite initial military setbacks, the Tet Offensive underscored the resilience and adaptability of the North Vietnamese Army, exposing the weaknesses of American strategy in Vietnam."

5. Develop your prompt: A research paper prompt serves as a question or statement that guides the direction of your research and engages readers. It should be open-ended, thought-provoking, and aligned with your thesis statement. For example:

- "To what extent did the Tet Offensive shape public opinion and policy decisions regarding the Vietnam War?"
- "Evaluate the impact of the Tet Offensive on the military strategies employed by both the North Vietnamese Army and the United States during the Vietnam War."

Remember, your thesis statement and prompt should be tailored to your research and should reflect the unique angle or analysis you plan to explore.