In writing, what is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement is a crucial component of writing that encapsulates the main idea or argument of a piece of work. It typically appears at the end of the introduction and serves to guide the reader through the text by providing a clear focus. By expressing the primary argument, the thesis statement sets the stage for the supporting points that follow, making it easier for readers to understand the writer's perspective.

It’s important to note that a concluding sentence summarizes points already discussed, while a quote from a famous person may enhance an argument but does not serve as the main idea itself. A summary of the entire essay, on the other hand, is typically found at the end and aims to recapitulate the main points without asserting an argument. Thus, the thesis statement distinctly stands out as the definitive statement of the central theme or claim within the work.