Writing a Thesis, Introduction, and Conclusion

Thesis

You will write a thesis statement for your research paper. Your thesis statement is the crux of your argument or what you are trying to prove. It should concisely articulate the main point of your research. (Customize with any specific thesis requirements.)

University Writing Center Handout on Thesis Statements

Introduction

Write an introduction to your research paper (required length can be specified). Present your topic and the context/purpose of your research. Why is this a topic worth exploring?  Consider your introduction like the roadmap of your paper. It should tell the reader where you are, where you are going, and how you will get there.

University Writing Center Handout on Introductions

Conclusion

You will write the conclusion for your research paper (required length can be specified). This is the space for you to wrap up your argument and reiterate your main points. The conclusion should not present any new information, but rather provide a synthesis or restatement of what your paper has covered and discussed. Remember that this is the final impression that you give to your reader, so consider carefully what you want that lasting message to be.

University Writing Center Handout on Conclusions