Chapter 11 Summary - The Bedford Researcher

Mike Palmquist, in chapter 11 of his book The Bedford Researcher, describes the process of developing your thesis statement by reviewing your position statement; reviewing your notes; considering you purpose and role; reflecting on your readers; identifying important information, ideas, and arguments associated with your position; drafting alternative thesis statements; considering the type of document you're planing to write; and finally, focusing your thesis statement. This all sounds like a lot just for one little sentence in your whole paper but as Palmquist says, "Your thesis statement provides a clear, focused expression of the main point you want to make. It is, in a nutshell, the most important idea or argument you want to convey to your readers." (203-204) The two main things that Palmquist really emphasizes is that, one, you really want to use the stuff you already have to your advantage. All of the key things you've come across in your readings will be of major help, for example all of the ideas and arguments you've come across while reading, will be very important when moving on to Palmquist's next main point. Second, when drafting your thesis statement try many different things. Try different writing styles, different genres, and different types of thesis statements. All of this will help you out when writing your thesis statement.