A simple review of how to write a three-part parallel thesis statement.

2. A good thesis
statement should
•Be arguable
•Have three parts
•Be parallel in structure

3. So how do you do that?

4. Make it arguable
• Don’t pick a topic or question
that can be answered with a
simple yes or no. You want
something open-ended that
you have to prove with your
research!!

5. Use this graphic for three points
• Sample: I want to argue that social
network sites are good for kids and
society.
• Now I need to think of three points
Social networks…
(this is your broad
idea or issue)
Connect people (key point #1)
Educate people (key point #2)
Entertain people (key point #3)

6. How to make it parallel
• Notice that each part of the prong starts
with a verb in the same form. This is
parallel structure
Social networks…
(this is your broad
idea or issue)
Connect people (key point #1)
Educate people (key point #2)
Entertain people (key point #3)

7. How to make it parallel
• Notice that each part of the prong starts
with a verb in the same form. This is
parallel structure
Social networks…
(this is your broad
idea or issue)
Connect people (key point #1)
Educate people (key point #2)
Entertain people (key point #3)