Which best describes a key first step in developing a clear and arguable thesis?

• A. Begin with a broad general description of the topic and present a vague conclusion.
• B. Start with a debatable stance, state a precise claim, define scope, and ensure there is enough evidence to support it.
• C. List as many sources as possible without articulating a claim.
• D. Focus on personal anecdotes.

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how to craft a thesis that can be argued. A strong thesis starts with a stance that could be challenged, stated with precision, and bounded in scope, and it signals that there is enough evidence to defend it.

Starting with a broad general description and a vague conclusion doesn’t give readers a clear, debatable position to argue for or against. Without a precise claim, the rest of the essay can wander instead of staying focused on a defendable argument. Similarly, listing many sources without articulating a claim leaves you with raw material but no direction or claim to evaluate or defend. Relying on personal anecdotes, while relatable, doesn’t establish a claim that can be tested or supported with broader evidence, so it’s hard to argue decisively with readers who want generalizable or verifiable support.

The best first step, then, is to put forward a debatable stance, spell out a precise claim, define the scope of the argument, and ensure there’s evidence available to back it up. This approach gives you a clear target for your analysis and writing, and it guides the selection of evidence and the organization of your argument. For practice, think of a topic you care about, state a claim that someone could reasonably disagree with, narrow it to a manageable scope, and outline the kinds of evidence you would use to support it.