Topic+Sentences+vs.+Thesis+Statements


 * Topic Sentences vs Thesis Statement**

**Thesis Statements** A thesis statement defines the purpose of the paper. It needs to meet three criteria:

1. It must be **arguable** rather than a statement of fact. It should also say something original about the topic. 2. It must be **specific** enough so the reader knows what the argument is 3. It must be provide a **structure** to guide the paper

Good topic sentences can improve an essay's readability and organization. They usually meet the following criteria: 1. ** First sentence. ** A topic sentence is usually the first sentence of the paragraph.
 * Topic Sentences **

2. **Link to thesis **. Topic sentences use keywords or phrases from the thesis to indicate which part of the thesis will be discussed.

3. **Introduce the subject of the paragraph. ** They tell the reader what concept will be discussed and provide an introduction to the paragraph.

4. **Link to the previous paragraph. **<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> They link the subject of the present paragraph to that of the previous paragraph.

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">5. **<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Indicate the progression of the essay. **<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> Topic sentences may also signal to the reader where the essay has been and where it is headed through signposting words such as "first," "second," or "finally."