The problem is my thesis statement. That is the step I am stuck on.
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!)
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 real thesis statements.
Only you can write this because you must be able to state your own opinion/position/stance on the topic. Once you've drafted a thesis statement, feel free to post it if you'd like someone here to check it.
Choosing and formulating a strong thesis statement can be a challenging task. However, I can guide you through the process of creating an effective thesis statement step by step:
1. Understand the purpose: A thesis statement is the main argument or point of your essay or research paper. It serves as a roadmap that tells the reader what to expect from your work.
2. Identify the type of paper: Determine whether your paper is analytical, expository, argumentative, or research-based. This will help you shape your thesis statement accordingly.
3. Conduct research: Gather relevant information, facts, and evidence related to your topic. This will deepen your understanding of the subject matter and help you formulate a well-supported thesis statement.
4. Narrow down your focus: A thesis statement should be specific and concise. Determine the specific aspect of your topic that you want to explore in your paper. Consider the scope, depth, and limitations of your research.
5. Ask a question: Formulate a question that reflects the main issue or problem you want to address in your paper. For example, if your topic is climate change, your question might be, "What are the main causes and effects of global warming?"
6. Brainstorm possible answers: Reflect on the question and generate multiple potential answers. These answers will serve as the foundation for developing your thesis statement.
7. Analyze and choose the most compelling answer: Evaluate the different answers you brainstormed and choose the one that is the most precise, arguable, and supported by evidence. This will be the core of your thesis statement.
8. Summarize the answer concisely: Refine your chosen answer into a clear and focused sentence(s). It should present your main argument or claim and indicate the direction of your paper.
9. Test the thesis statement: Check whether your thesis statement is debatable and can be effectively supported with evidence. It should not be a statement of fact but rather a position that can be analyzed and discussed.
10. Revise and refine: After drafting your thesis statement, review it to ensure that it addresses all of the necessary components and accurately represents the main argument of your paper. Make any necessary revisions to enhance its clarity and precision.
Remember, crafting a strong thesis statement takes time and effort. It sets the tone for your entire paper and influences the reader's understanding of your work.