What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement serves as the backbone of an essay, articulating the writer's central argument or perspective that will be developed throughout the text. It provides a clear and focused guide for both the writer and the reader, establishing the primary point that the essay will support with evidence and reasoning. A well-crafted thesis statement outlines the specific positions the writer takes and presents the main idea in a way that can be supported with further analysis and discussion.

The other options, while related to the broader writing process, do not capture the essence of a thesis statement. For instance, a question aimed at engaging the reader lacks the assertive stance needed to convey an argument. Similarly, a summary of the conclusion reflects what has already been established rather than guiding the discourse from the outset. Lastly, defining terms, while necessary for clarity, does not encapsulate the argumentative nature required of a thesis statement.