thesis statement about challenges in life

The Role of Challenges in Human Life Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Challenges are a part of life; it is to be considered that life happens for us, and not to us. That means challenges are supposed to improve individuals and their teams and make them grow into the people they are destined to be. In life, there is a choice; to either succumb to the challenges or face them head-on. Instead of complaining about the challenges, one can become optimistic and consider them an opportunity to learn. This essay will explain how challenges make individuals and their teams strong and, how to use them as an opportunity to grow.

Challenges leave scars in life; that doesn’t make anyone inferior; they are a mark to show survival through them. Those marks provide energy to charge into other challenges, this time with more zeal and confidence. According to Ted Neitzke’s thinking podcast every challenge makes you and your team stronger because you learn and grow from previous challenges; Mistakes are not repeated. Teams grow stronger because they share lessons learned before and recuperate from them. Trees get bumps from injuries caused by humans but do not dry up due to such injuries; they grow over them, becoming unique, strong, and beautiful. Challenges are there to mold better humans suited to survive this harsh world.

The days we face challenges are crazy ones but, it is from these days that wisdom is gained. It is from failures, sadness, and trauma acquired from facing challenges that we get the knowledge to face other challenges ahead. These are the scars of life that should be appreciated since they symbolize life and healing. Emerging victorious from a challenge makes individuals and teams polished, refined, and better. That means they have grown, and no matter how small the margin is, it is not in the same spot as before.

Challenges are life moments for individuals and their teams; they should be faced optimistically as buffalos do. Going through challenges is an opportunity: to grow because new hardships are incurred, and to learn because every mistakes offers a lesson. It is vital to stay strong not only for ourselves but the team. Challenges are there to test us but we must keep moving upward and onward.

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How to Write the “Overcoming Challenges” Essay + Examples

What’s covered:.

• What is the Overcoming Challenges Essay?
• Real Overcoming Challenges Essay Prompts
• How to Choose a Topic
• Writing Tips

Overcoming Challenges Essay Examples

• Where to Get Your Essay Edited

While any college essay can be intimidating, the Overcoming Challenges prompt often worries students the most. Those students who’ve been lucky enough not to experience trauma tend to assume they have nothing worth saying. On the other hand, students who’ve overcome larger obstacles may be hesitant to talk about them.

Regardless of your particular circumstances, there are steps you can take to make the essay writing process simpler. Here are our top tips for writing the overcoming challenges essay successfully.

What is the “Overcoming Challenges” Essay?

The overcoming challenges prompt shows up frequently in both main application essays (like the Common App) and supplemental essays. Because supplemental essays allow students to provide schools with additional information, applicants should be sure that the subject matter they choose to write about differs from what’s in their main essay.

Students often assume the overcoming challenges essay requires them to detail past traumas. While you can certainly write about an experience that’s had a profound effect on your life, it’s important to remember that colleges aren’t evaluating students based on the seriousness of the obstacle they overcame.

On the contrary, the goal of this essay is to show admissions officers that you have the intelligence and fortitude to handle any challenges that come your way. After all, college serves as an introduction to adult life, and schools want to know that the students they admit are up to the task. 

Real “Overcoming Challenges” Essay Prompts

To help you understand what the “Overcoming Challenges” essay looks like, here are a couple sample prompts.

Currently, the Common Application asks students to answer the following prompt in 650 words or less:

“The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?”

For the past several years, MIT has prompted students to write 200 to 250 words on the following:

“Tell us about the most significant challenge you’ve faced or something important that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation?”

In both cases, the prompts explicitly ask for your response to the challenge. The event itself isn’t as important as how it pushed you to grow.

How to Choose a Topic for an Essay on Overcoming Challenges

When it comes to finding the best topic for your overcoming challenges essays, there’s no right answer. The word “challenge” is ambiguous and could be used to reference a wide range of situations from prevailing over a bully to getting over your lifelong stage fright to appear in a school musical. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind when selecting an essay subject.

1. Avoid trivial or common topics

While there aren’t many hard-and-fast rules for choosing an essay topic, students should avoid overdone topics.

These include:

• Working hard in a challenging class
• Overcoming a sports injury
• Moving schools or immigrating to the US
• Tragedy (divorce, death, abuse)

Admissions officers have read numerous essays on the subject, so it’s harder for you to stand out (see our full list of cliché college essay topics to avoid ). If events like these were truly formative to you, you can still choose to write about them, but you’ll need to be as personal as possible. 

It’s also ideal if you have a less traditional storyline for a cliché topic; for example, if your sports injury led you to discover a new passion, that would be a more unique story than detailing how you overcame your injury and got back in the game.

Similarly, students may not want to write about an obstacle that admissions committees could perceive as low stakes, such as getting a B on a test, or getting into a small fight with a friend. The goal of this essay is to illustrate how you respond to adversity, so the topic you pick should’ve been at least impactful on your personal growth.

2. Pick challenges that demonstrate qualities you want to highlight

Students often mistakenly assume they need to have experienced exceptional circumstances like poverty, an abusive parent, or cancer to write a good essay. The truth is that the best topics will allow you to highlight specific personal qualities and share more about who you are. The essay should be less about the challenge itself, and more about how you responded to it.

Ask yourself what personality traits you want to emphasize, and see what’s missing in your application. Maybe you want to highlight your adaptability, for example, but that isn’t clearly expressed in your application. In this case, you might write about a challenge that put your adaptability to the test, or shaped you to become more adaptable.

Here are some examples of good topics we’ve seen over the years:

• Not having a coach for a sports team and becoming one yourself
• Helping a parent through a serious health issue
• Trying to get the school track dedicated to a coach
• Having to switch your Model UN position last-minute

Tips for Writing an Essay About Overcoming Challenges

Once you’ve selected a topic for your essays, it’s time to sit down and write. For best results, make sure your essay focuses on your efforts to tackle an obstacle rather than the problem itself. Additionally, you could avoid essay writing pitfalls by doing the following:

1. Choose an original essay structure

If you want your overcoming challenges essay to attract attention, aim to break away from more traditional structures. Most of these essays start by describing an unsuccessful attempt at a goal and then explain the steps the writer took to master the challenge. 

You can stand out by choosing a challenge you’re still working on overcoming, or focus on a mental or emotional challenge that spans multiple activities or events. For example, you might discuss your fear of public speaking and how that impacted your ability to coach your brother’s Little League team and run for Student Council. 

You can also choose a challenge that can be narrated in the moment, such as being put on the spot to teach a yoga class. These challenges can make particularly engaging essays, as you get to experience the writer’s thoughts and emotions as they unfold.

Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need to have succeeded in your goal for this essay. Maybe you ran for an election and lost, or maybe you proposed a measure to the school board that wasn’t passed. It’s still possible to write a strong essay about topics like these as long as you focus on your personal growth. In fact, these may make for even stronger essays since they are more unconventional topics.

2. Focus on the internal

When writing about past experiences, you may be tempted to spend too much time describing specific people and events. With an Overcoming Challenges essay though, the goal is to focus on your thoughts and feelings.

For example, rather than detail all the steps you took to become a better public speaker, use the majority of your essay to describe your mental state as you embarked on the journey to achieving your goals. Were you excited, scared, anxious, or hopeful? Don’t be afraid to let the reader in on your innermost emotions and thoughts during this process.

3. Share what you learned 

An Overcoming Challenges essay should leave the reader with a clear understanding of what you learned on your journey, be it physical, mental, or emotional. There’s no need to explicitly say “this experience taught me X,” but your essay should at least implicitly share any lessons you learned. This can be done through your actions and in-the-moment reflections. Remember that the goal is to show admissions committees why your experiences make you a great candidate for admission. 

Was I no longer the beloved daughter of nature, whisperer of trees? Knee-high rubber boots, camouflage, bug spray—I wore the g arb and perfume of a proud wild woman, yet there I was, hunched over the pathetic pile of stubborn sticks, utterly stumped, on the verge of tears. As a child, I had considered myself a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes, who was serenaded by mourning doves and chickadees, who could glide through tick-infested meadows and emerge Lyme-free. I knew the cracks of the earth like the scars on my own rough palms. Yet here I was, ten years later, incapable of performing the most fundamental outdoor task: I could not, for the life of me, start a fire. 

Furiously I rubbed the twigs together—rubbed and rubbed until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers. No smoke. The twigs were too young, too sticky-green; I tossed them away with a shower of curses, and began tearing through the underbrush in search of a more flammable collection. My efforts were fruitless. Livid, I bit a rejected twig, determined to prove that the forest had spurned me, offering only young, wet bones that would never burn. But the wood cracked like carrots between my teeth—old, brittle, and bitter. Roaring and nursing my aching palms, I retreated to the tent, where I sulked and awaited the jeers of my family. 

Rattling their empty worm cans and reeking of fat fish, my brother and cousins swaggered into the campsite. Immediately, they noticed the minor stick massacre by the fire pit and called to me, their deep voices already sharp with contempt. 

“Where’s the fire, Princess Clara?” they taunted. “Having some trouble?” They prodded me with the ends of the chewed branches and, with a few effortless scrapes of wood on rock, sparked a red and roaring flame. My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame. 

In the tent, I pondered my failure. Was I so dainty? Was I that incapable? I thought of my hands, how calloused and capable they had been, how tender and smooth they had become. It had been years since I’d kneaded mud between my fingers; instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano, my hands softening into those of a musician—fleshy and sensitive. And I’d gotten glasses, having grown horrifically nearsighted; long nights of dim lighting and thick books had done this. I couldn’t remember the last time I had lain down on a hill, barefaced, and seen the stars without having to squint. Crawling along the edge of the tent, a spider confirmed my transformation—he disgusted me, and I felt an overwhelming urge to squash him. 

Yet, I realized I hadn’t really changed—I had only shifted perspective. I still eagerly explored new worlds, but through poems and prose rather than pastures and puddles. I’d grown to prefer the boom of a bass over that of a bullfrog, learned to coax a different kind of fire from wood, having developed a burn for writing rhymes and scrawling hypotheses. 

That night, I stayed up late with my journal and wrote about the spider I had decided not to kill. I had tolerated him just barely, only shrieking when he jumped—it helped to watch him decorate the corners of the tent with his delicate webs, knowing that he couldn’t start fires, either. When the night grew cold and the embers died, my words still smoked—my hands burned from all that scrawling—and even when I fell asleep, the ideas kept sparking—I was on fire, always on fire.

This essay is an excellent example because the writer turns an everyday challenge—starting a fire—into an exploration of her identity. The writer was once “a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes,” but has since traded her love of the outdoors for a love of music, writing, and reading. 

The story begins in media res , or in the middle of the action, allowing readers to feel as if we’re there with the writer. One of the essay’s biggest strengths is its use of imagery. We can easily visualize the writer’s childhood and the present day. For instance, she states that she “rubbed and rubbed [the twigs] until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers.”

The writing has an extremely literary quality, particularly with its wordplay. The writer reappropriates words and meanings, and even appeals to the senses: “My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame.” She later uses a parallelism to cleverly juxtapose her changed interests: “instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano.”

One of the essay’s main areas of improvement is its overemphasis on the “story” and lack of emphasis on the reflection. The second to last paragraph about changing perspective is crucial to the essay, as it ties the anecdote to larger lessons in the writer’s life. She states that she hasn’t changed, but has only shifted perspective. Yet, we don’t get a good sense of where this realization comes from and how it impacts her life going forward. 

The end of the essay offers a satisfying return to the fire imagery, and highlights the writer’s passion—the one thing that has remained constant in her life.

“Getting beat is one thing – it’s part of competing – but I want no part in losing.” Coach Rob Stark’s motto never fails to remind me of his encouragement on early-morning bus rides to track meets around the state. I’ve always appreciated the phrase, but an experience last June helped me understand its more profound, universal meaning.

Stark, as we affectionately call him, has coached track at my high school for 25 years. His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running. When I learned a neighboring high school had dedicated their track to a longtime coach, I felt that Stark deserved similar honors.

Our school district’s board of education indicated they would only dedicate our track to Stark if I could demonstrate that he was extraordinary. I took charge and mobilized my teammates to distribute petitions, reach out to alumni, and compile statistics on the many team and individual champions Stark had coached over the years. We received astounding support, collecting almost 3,000 signatures and pages of endorsements from across the community. With help from my teammates, I presented this evidence to the board.

They didn’t bite. 

Most members argued that dedicating the track was a low priority. Knowing that we had to act quickly to convince them of its importance, I called a team meeting where we drafted a rebuttal for the next board meeting. To my surprise, they chose me to deliver it. I was far from the best public speaker in the group, and I felt nervous about going before the unsympathetic board again. However, at that second meeting, I discovered that I enjoy articulating and arguing for something that I’m passionate about.

Public speaking resembles a cross country race. Walking to the starting line, you have to trust your training and quell your last minute doubts. When the gun fires, you can’t think too hard about anything; your performance has to be instinctual, natural, even relaxed. At the next board meeting, the podium was my starting line. As I walked up to it, familiar butterflies fluttered in my stomach. Instead of the track stretching out in front of me, I faced the vast audience of teachers, board members, and my teammates. I felt my adrenaline build, and reassured myself: I’ve put in the work, my argument is powerful and sound. As the board president told me to introduce myself, I heard, “runners set” in the back of my mind. She finished speaking, and Bang! The brief silence was the gunshot for me to begin. 

The next few minutes blurred together, but when the dust settled, I knew from the board members’ expressions and the audience’s thunderous approval that I had run quite a race. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough; the board voted down our proposal. I was disappointed, but proud of myself, my team, and our collaboration off the track. We stood up for a cause we believed in, and I overcame my worries about being a leader. Although I discovered that changing the status quo through an elected body can be a painstakingly difficult process and requires perseverance, I learned that I enjoy the challenges this effort offers. Last month, one of the school board members joked that I had become a “regular” – I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Just as Stark taught me, I worked passionately to achieve my goal. I may have been beaten when I appealed to the board, but I certainly didn’t lose, and that would have made Stark proud.

While the writer didn’t succeed in getting the track dedicated to Coach Stark, their essay is certainly successful in showing their willingness to push themselves and take initiative.

The essay opens with a quote from Coach Stark that later comes full circle at the end of the essay. We learn about Stark’s impact and the motivation for trying to get the track dedicated to him.

One of the biggest areas of improvement in the intro, however, is how the essay tells us Stark’s impact rather than showing us: His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

The writer could’ve helped us feel a stronger emotional connection to Stark if they had included examples of Stark’s qualities, rather than explicitly stating them. For example, they could’ve written something like: Stark was the kind of person who would give you gas money if you told him your parents couldn’t afford to pick you up from practice. And he actually did that—several times. At track meets, alumni regularly would come talk to him and tell him how he’d changed their lives. Before Stark, I was ambivalent about running and was on the JV team, but his encouragement motivated me to run longer and harder and eventually make varsity. Because of him, I approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

The essay goes on to explain how the writer overcame their apprehension of public speaking, and likens the process of submitting an appeal to the school board to running a race. This metaphor makes the writing more engaging and allows us to feel the student’s emotions.

While the student didn’t ultimately succeed in getting the track dedicated, we learn about their resilience and initiative: I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Overall, this essay is well-done. It demonstrates growth despite failing to meet a goal, which is a unique essay structure. The running metaphor and full-circle intro/ending also elevate the writing in this essay.

Where to Get Your Overcoming Challenges Essay Edited

The Overcoming Challenges essay is one of the trickier supplemental prompts, so it’s important to get feedback on your drafts. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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Essays About Life Challenges: Top 5 Examples and 6 Prompts

Essays about life challenges let us share our valuable experiences and lessons in life. See our top examples and prompts to assist you in writing your essay.

Life challenges envelop the obstacles we face to reach where we are now. These personal crises we had to deal with have left us with lessons we can use to grow as people and have better lives. Essays that tackle this subject help us reflect on our experiences so we can remember our failures, celebrate our successes, and appreciate our growth. You can also check out these essays about life .

5 Essay Examples

1. african refugees life challenges by anonymous on ivypanda.com, 2. overcoming challenges in my life: dyslexia by anonymous on gradesfixer.com, 3. a self-reflection of my life challenges, motivation, and persistence to achieve my goals by terence hampton, 4. young generation’s challenges in life and career by anonymous on ivypanda.com, 5. role of challenges in identification of purposes in life by anonymous on gradesfixer.com, 1. before and after life challenges, 2. extreme life challenges and mental health, 3. the role of family when dealing with life challenges, 4. life challenges at work, 5. the different effects of life challenges, 6. overcoming life challenges.

“The refugees are allowed to live in these camps and receive emergency food and medical care until they feel it is secure enough for them to go back to their domiciles or until they are reunited with their people living out of the campers.” 

This essay gives readers an insight into the everyday challenges of refugees living in a camp. The author describes their situation in detail to let the readers understand their suffering and how difficult it is to be away from their homes. The essay further includes relevant statistics and studies to showcase the astounding number of refugees worldwide, including how they became refugees. 

Refugee camps still exist today, intending to relieve refugees from their challenging situations. Creating a challenging environment for many refugees living in this situation. You might be interested in these essays about cause and effect .

“As a child, I can remember when people were reassuring me that I was such a bright and outgoing kid. But there were times that I didn’t feel that way. I’ve always thought they were wrong about me and just trying to get my self-esteem up… ”

In this essay, the author shares their difficulties with having dyslexia, noting how growing up with this disability put them through overwhelming pressure and unpleasant situations that made them self-conscious. Their disability triggered many emotions that made them constantly embarrassed or panicky. 

However, the writer recognizes how their disability helped them improve their communication skills and reflects on how their challenging time at school molded them into who they are today. You can also check out these essays about conflict and essays about stress .

“I refuse to let adversity crush me because that would mean that my family and I would have done all this suffering for nothing. I do not live in vain, I live for a purpose and that is to inspire people to be more than what they think they are capable of. No day is promised, but the future is always full of possibilities.”

Hampton starts this essay by recognizing how life continuously throws him challenges. Still, he decides to only reflect on the most significant impact on his character, namely, his brother’s arrest, his twin brother Dante’s disability, and his father’s death. Throughout the piece, Hampton narrates these obstacles, letting the readers know what they made him feel and how they affected him as an individual. 

When he thinks back to these difficulties, he realizes what his objectives should be, encouraging him to be a better person. Hampton tells his readers that these challenges inspire him to reach his goals. Check out these essays about life lessons .

“Being the age of twenty-four years, I have encountered and seen the various challenges that many youths in this generation are experiencing. The list of challenges facing the youth in the current generation is endless with most of them having great impacts on the entire globe.”

As a young person, the author lets the audience in on the challenges they face and centers the essay around the hurdles youth are expected to deal with. The writer focuses on the difficulty of gaining employment despite years of formal training. This essay looks at current challenges facing today’s youth and how to overcome them.

“When you are faced with a challenge, especially one that pushes your limits, you sometimes behave differently. I’m not sure how to explain it…but there is occasionally a moment when you feel absolutely drained — like you can’t take one more step or your arms are about to fail you — but if you have the right mindset you can pull the strength you need from a part of you that is not commonly used.”

This essay focuses on how challenges can be used to enhance self-identification. The author explains how difficulties in life are commonly related to experiential learning, which helps people reflect, grow, and change. The author also believes that the most challenging times bring out the bravest in us, and the more we get used to these challenges, the more we develop our “superhero power.” 

6 Prompts for Essays About Life Challenges

Begin your essay by sharing a personal experience about a life-changing challenge you had to endure. Reminisce about your life before this occurred, and delve into how you felt during the challenge, then describe overcoming the challenge and how it shaped you. You can split your essay into three sections to dedicate thought to each part of the process. Make sure to use descriptive language and share your feelings with the reader for an engaging piece of writing.

The effects of life challenges differ for each person. For this prompt, research severe life challenges that can significantly damage an individual and add relevant statistics that prove these cases. These occurrences include childhood abuse, long-term stress, and social isolation. Conduct research and describe how experiencing these challenges can result in mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Tip: Make sure to cite research from credible sources. 

Our upbringing shapes how we confront challenges and find resolutions. These lessons are communicated through events we are exposed to as children and young adults. In this essay, describe the ways that different upbringings can impact our ability to cope with challenges. 

For example, a child who grew up in a family where anger was used to resolve challenges may be more likely to deal with their own challenges in a negative way, resulting in anger and anxiety. Look for studies that support this prompt and identify the importance of a family unit in a child’s reaction to life challenges. Check out our 20 engaging essay topics about family .

To narrow down the subject for your essay, focus on an aspect of an individual’s life they can’t remove, such as livelihood. Use this prompt to open a discussion about the challenges people face in their workplace and find cases that illustrate these difficulties. 

For example, there are 48.6 million Americans who have experienced workplace bullying. Delve into the reasons for these issues and offer possible solutions.

Overcoming tough challenges in life may lead to positive or negative results. Divide your essay into two parts, list the pros and cons of dealing with everyday life challenges, and add relevant factors that lead to those outcomes. 

Here’s an example: After the death of a loved one, an individual will learn how to deal with the pain and continue living their life with a stronger faith. On the other hand, they may succumb to sadness and become depressed.

For this prompt, choose a specific life challenge you had to deal with and how you addressed the situation. Narrate the difficulties you needed to manage during that time and ensure to highlight the qualities or values you used to overcome them.

Following the previous point’s example, if you have experienced losing a close relative, your struggles could include consoling your family and yourself while needing to oversee how the deceased’s funeral and estate are handled. You can describe how you overcame this challenge by remaining composed and wise throughout the ordeal. 

Looking for more? Check out our guide on how to write essays about depression .

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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25 Thesis Statement Examples

A thesis statement is needed in an essay or dissertation . There are multiple types of thesis statements – but generally we can divide them into expository and argumentative. An expository statement is a statement of fact (common in expository essays and process essays) while an argumentative statement is a statement of opinion (common in argumentative essays and dissertations). Below are examples of each.

Strong Thesis Statement Examples

1. School Uniforms

“Mandatory school uniforms should be implemented in educational institutions as they promote a sense of equality, reduce distractions, and foster a focused and professional learning environment.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay or Debate

Read More: School Uniforms Pros and Cons

2. Nature vs Nurture

“This essay will explore how both genetic inheritance and environmental factors equally contribute to shaping human behavior and personality.”

Best For: Compare and Contrast Essay

Read More: Nature vs Nurture Debate

3. American Dream

“The American Dream, a symbol of opportunity and success, is increasingly elusive in today’s socio-economic landscape, revealing deeper inequalities in society.”

Best For: Persuasive Essay

Read More: What is the American Dream?

4. Social Media

“Social media has revolutionized communication and societal interactions, but it also presents significant challenges related to privacy, mental health, and misinformation.”

Best For: Expository Essay

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Social Media

5. Globalization

“Globalization has created a world more interconnected than ever before, yet it also amplifies economic disparities and cultural homogenization.”

Read More: Globalization Pros and Cons

6. Urbanization

“Urbanization drives economic growth and social development, but it also poses unique challenges in sustainability and quality of life.”

Read More: Learn about Urbanization

7. Immigration

“Immigration enriches receiving countries culturally and economically, outweighing any perceived social or economic burdens.”

Read More: Immigration Pros and Cons

8. Cultural Identity

“In a globalized world, maintaining distinct cultural identities is crucial for preserving cultural diversity and fostering global understanding, despite the challenges of assimilation and homogenization.”

Best For: Argumentative Essay

Read More: Learn about Cultural Identity

9. Technology

“Medical technologies in care institutions in Toronto has increased subjcetive outcomes for patients with chronic pain.”

Best For: Research Paper

10. Capitalism vs Socialism

“The debate between capitalism and socialism centers on balancing economic freedom and inequality, each presenting distinct approaches to resource distribution and social welfare.”

11. Cultural Heritage

“The preservation of cultural heritage is essential, not only for cultural identity but also for educating future generations, outweighing the arguments for modernization and commercialization.”

12. Pseudoscience

“Pseudoscience, characterized by a lack of empirical support, continues to influence public perception and decision-making, often at the expense of scientific credibility.”

Read More: Examples of Pseudoscience

13. Free Will

“The concept of free will is largely an illusion, with human behavior and decisions predominantly determined by biological and environmental factors.”

Read More: Do we have Free Will?

14. Gender Roles

“Traditional gender roles are outdated and harmful, restricting individual freedoms and perpetuating gender inequalities in modern society.”

Read More: What are Traditional Gender Roles?

15. Work-Life Ballance

“The trend to online and distance work in the 2020s led to improved subjective feelings of work-life balance but simultaneously increased self-reported loneliness.”

Read More: Work-Life Balance Examples

16. Universal Healthcare

“Universal healthcare is a fundamental human right and the most effective system for ensuring health equity and societal well-being, outweighing concerns about government involvement and costs.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Universal Healthcare

17. Minimum Wage

“The implementation of a fair minimum wage is vital for reducing economic inequality, yet it is often contentious due to its potential impact on businesses and employment rates.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Raising the Minimum Wage

18. Homework

“The homework provided throughout this semester has enabled me to achieve greater self-reflection, identify gaps in my knowledge, and reinforce those gaps through spaced repetition.”

Best For: Reflective Essay

Read More: Reasons Homework Should be Banned

19. Charter Schools

“Charter schools offer alternatives to traditional public education, promising innovation and choice but also raising questions about accountability and educational equity.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of Charter Schools

20. Effects of the Internet

“The Internet has drastically reshaped human communication, access to information, and societal dynamics, generally with a net positive effect on society.”

Read More: The Pros and Cons of the Internet

21. Affirmative Action

“Affirmative action is essential for rectifying historical injustices and achieving true meritocracy in education and employment, contrary to claims of reverse discrimination.”

Best For: Essay

Read More: Affirmative Action Pros and Cons

22. Soft Skills

“Soft skills, such as communication and empathy, are increasingly recognized as essential for success in the modern workforce, and therefore should be a strong focus at school and university level.”

Read More: Soft Skills Examples

23. Moral Panic

“Moral panic, often fueled by media and cultural anxieties, can lead to exaggerated societal responses that sometimes overlook rational analysis and evidence.”

Read More: Moral Panic Examples

24. Freedom of the Press

“Freedom of the press is critical for democracy and informed citizenship, yet it faces challenges from censorship, media bias, and the proliferation of misinformation.”

Read More: Freedom of the Press Examples

25. Mass Media

“Mass media shapes public opinion and cultural norms, but its concentration of ownership and commercial interests raise concerns about bias and the quality of information.”

Best For: Critical Analysis

Read More: Mass Media Examples

Checklist: How to use your Thesis Statement

✅ Position: If your statement is for an argumentative or persuasive essay, or a dissertation, ensure it takes a clear stance on the topic. ✅ Specificity: It addresses a specific aspect of the topic, providing focus for the essay. ✅ Conciseness: Typically, a thesis statement is one to two sentences long. It should be concise, clear, and easily identifiable. ✅ Direction: The thesis statement guides the direction of the essay, providing a roadmap for the argument, narrative, or explanation. ✅ Evidence-based: While the thesis statement itself doesn’t include evidence, it sets up an argument that can be supported with evidence in the body of the essay. ✅ Placement: Generally, the thesis statement is placed at the end of the introduction of an essay.

Try These AI Prompts – Thesis Statement Generator!

One way to brainstorm thesis statements is to get AI to brainstorm some for you! Try this AI prompt:

💡 AI PROMPT FOR EXPOSITORY THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTUCTIONS]. I want you to create an expository thesis statement that doesn’t argue a position, but demonstrates depth of knowledge about the topic.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR ARGUMENTATIVE THESIS STATEMENT I am writing an essay on [TOPIC] and these are the instructions my teacher gave me: [INSTRUCTIONS]. I want you to create an argumentative thesis statement that clearly takes a position on this issue.

💡 AI PROMPT FOR COMPARE AND CONTRAST THESIS STATEMENT I am writing a compare and contrast essay that compares [Concept 1] and [Concept2]. Give me 5 potential single-sentence thesis statements that remain objective.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Self-Actualization Examples (Maslow's Hierarchy)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Forest Schools Philosophy & Curriculum, Explained!
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Montessori's 4 Planes of Development, Explained!
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Montessori vs Reggio Emilia vs Steiner-Waldorf vs Froebel

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• Essay Guide
• Thesis Guide
• Student Tips

How to Write a Personal Challenge Essay (with Examples)

A personal challenge essay offers a singular chance for introspection and personal development. It gives you a chance to consider your past, face difficulties, and demonstrate your tenacity. This essay structure enables you to communicate your ideas and experiences with others, regardless of whether you’ve overcome hardship, dealt with a tricky circumstance, or chased an audacious goal. You’ll walk you through the phases of writing an engaging personal challenge essay in this in-depth guide, complete with samples that demonstrate the procedure.

Understanding the Personal Challenge Essay

The Personal challenges in life as a student essay asks you to describe an instance or time in your life when you had to overcome challenges, setbacks, or barriers. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate your resilience, your capacity to face adversity, and the lessons you’ve picked up along the road. This kind of article necessitates reflection, sincerity, and skillful narrative.

Selecting a Meaningful Challenge

It’s important to pick the correct challenge to write about. Think about Personal challenges in life as a student essay that profoundly influenced your development, principles, or attitude on life. It can have been an obstacle you overcame in your studies, relationships, sense of self, or any other area of your life. The task should have personal significance for you and provide information that your audience can relate to.

Structuring Your Personal Challenge Essay

To effectively portray your experiences, feelings, and growth, writing an engaging personal challenge essay involves careful thought and a well-organized format. The following steps will show you how to organize your essay such that it presents a logical and interesting story:

Introduction:

Beginning your essay with an attention-grabbing hook that draws the reader in and highlights the topic of the difficulty you’ll be exploring is a good idea. This might be a provocative inquiry, a moving saying, a detailed account, or a first-hand account associated with your issue.

Background & Context:

Make sure the reader has all the background knowledge they need to comprehend your dilemma. Describe the context, surroundings, and any other pertinent information that establishes the scene for your narrative. Additionally, you have the choice to ask for assistance from PhD thesis writing help if you run into difficulties when writing the background and context of your thesis or dissertation or if you are unsure owing to a lack of experience. They can offer helpful assistance to improve the caliber of your work.

The Challenge:

Describe the challenge in detail in a portion of your essay. When describing the challenges, difficulties, or setbacks you encountered, be descriptive and in-depth.

Your Reaction and Result:

Write about how you responded to the challenge in this part. What steps have you taken? Did you make crucial decisions, prepare a plan, or ask for assistance? Be sure to emphasize your ability to solve problems, tenacity, and any other traits that may have helped you overcome the obstacle.

Growth and Reflection:

Consider the encounter and share what you took away from it. What effects did the challenge have on your emotions, mind, and possibly even body? What new understandings did you get about who you are, your values, or your outlook on life? Describe how you overcame the obstacle to grow personally, discover yourself, or alter your perspective.

Takeaways & Lessons:

The exact lessons you took away from overcoming the obstacle should be highlighted. What priceless knowledge, abilities, or traits did you acquire as a result? Describe how these teachings have shaped your current behavior, choices, or attitude in life.

Conclusion:

Writing a compelling conclusion that connects everything can help you to conclude your essay. Write a summary of your shared journey, highlighting your personal development and new perspectives.

Include a Call to Action (Optional):

Depending on the nature of your issue, you might want to include a call to action that prompts the reader to reflect on their own issues, take action, or adopt a particular attitude.

After you’ve finished writing the essay, take some time to review and make any necessary changes. Check that the grammar, spelling, and punctuation in your writing are correct, as well as the flow.

Maintain You’re Authentic Voice Throughout the Essay:

While it’s crucial to follow a structured methodology, don’t forget to preserve your authentic voice. Remain sincere, honest, and personal in your writing. Your unique perspective and emotions will lend greater authenticity to your writing and make it more compelling. By adhering to the instructions outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll effectively organize your personal challenge essay. This approach will skillfully lead your readers through your journey, captivating their attention and leaving a memorable impression. Furthermore, if you find it challenging to maintain a systematic approach, consider seeking assistance from master thesis writing help. Their expertise can aid you in completing your work with precision and coherence.

Don’ts and Dos

Be upfront and honest when discussing your experiences. Do emphasize your development and lessons acquired. To keep the reader’s attention, employ colorful language and descriptions. Don’t make up or embellish details. Instead of blaming others for the difficulty, concentrate on your solution. Choose a challenge that had a significant influence rather than one that was inconsequential.

Examples of Personal Challenge Essays

Following are the Personal challenge essay examples:

Overcoming Academic Challenges:

Navigating the challenges we face in life essay can be a transformative journey that leads to personal growth and self-discovery. A prime example of this is when I confronted a series of academic setbacks. I realized that my ingrained fear of failing was standing in the way of my development. I, however, resisted allowing this fear to direct my course. I started a quest for self-improvement with pure tenacity. I reached out for guidance and support, shedding light on the power of seeking assistance when needed.

Overcoming Fear:

For instance, I had always been terrified of public speaking, but I had to face my phobia to present in front of a large crowd. I overcame my anxiety about public speaking over time with practice and confidence, and I also acquired speaking abilities that I still use today.

Dealing with Personal Loss:

Losing a loved one was a difficult emotional experience that altered my outlook on relationships and life. I learned the value of cherishing moments and helping others in need through my grief and contemplation.

Examples of challenges you have overcome as a student essay

I have encountered a range of challenges as a student, which has pushed my perseverance, adaptability, and resilience to the test. Even though they occasionally proved to be challenging, these obstacles ultimately helped me become a better and more capable individual. Here are a few instances of obstacles I overcame in my academic career:

Time Management Challenges:

Juggling schoolwork, assignments, extracurricular activities, and personal obligations can be difficult. There were times when I struggled to adequately manage my time, which resulted in missed deadlines and frustration. To overcome this difficulty, I started adopting time management strategies like making a thorough calendar, establishing priorities, and breaking work down into smaller, more manageable pieces. I became more organized about my obligations over time, which led to increased productivity and decreased stress. Furthermore, many students pursuing careers in the medical field face similarly demanding schedules that make it challenging to meet deadlines. In such cases, they often turn to nursing research paper writing services to ensure the quality and timeliness of their assignments.

Academic Setbacks:

It was demoralizing to experience academic setbacks, such as earning lower grades than expected. I decided to take advantage of these setbacks as chances for improvement rather than giving in to self-doubt. I requested input from my lecturers, made note of my weaknesses, and put focused study techniques into practice. I was able to improve my academic performance and regain my confidence by persevering and being willing to learn from my failures.

Language Barrier:

Navigating English as a second language introduced a unique set of challenges, especially in terms of effective communication and the completion of writing assignments. In essays and presentations, I often encountered hurdles in articulating my thoughts coherently and concisely. To overcome this hurdle, I actively expanded my vocabulary, engaged in consistent reading and writing exercises, and actively sought input from peers and professors. Furthermore, this drive to enhance my linguistic abilities not only improved my communication skills but also bolstered my confidence in expressing myself in academic and professional settings. My determination to conquer these language-related challenges demonstrates my commitment to growth and adaptability, qualities that I believe would make me a strong candidate for the Harvard Scholarship Essay .

Dynamics of Group Projects:

Due to the various work habits, schedules, and perspectives held by the group members, collaborative projects have occasionally proven to be difficult. I adopted efficient communication techniques, such as active listening and open discussion, to handle these circumstances. By praising each team member’s abilities and accomplishments, I helped to create a more effective and pleasant working atmosphere.

Personal Well-Being and Health:

It can be difficult to maintain a good balance between your personal needs and your academic obligations. I have occasionally overlooked my needs, which has resulted in burnout and a decline in drive. I gave exercise, wholesome eating, and regular breaks top priority since I understood how important self-care was. This all-encompassing strategy not only increased my general well-being but also sharpened my attention and increased my output. These examples collectively constitute my challenges in life as a student essay. They serve as valuable lessons that offer insights on how to navigate and overcome various situations.

How to Revise and Improve Your Essay

For instance, if you are given a topic such as “Essay on Environmental Problems and Their Solutions” and you’re not well-versed in it, it’s advisable to invest time in research. This will enable you to create quality content for your essay. After writing your personal challenge essay, it’s essential to engage in the editing and revision process. Ensure that your essay flows logically and that your ideas are well-organized. Edit for clarity, grammar, and punctuation. If you’re seeking a comprehensive perspective, consider seeking feedback from peers, professors, or mentors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final thoughts.

Writing a personal challenge essay offers you the chance to share your unique journey and inspire others through your resilience and progress you can create an engaging tale that engrosses your readers by choosing a pertinent challenge, using a solid essay structure, and remaining honest. It’s crucial to remember that your essay about a personal issue demonstrates both your capacity for self-reflection and personal development in addition to your capacity for overcoming challenges. For those who face challenges in managing their academic tasks, there are online homework writing services available that can provide valuable assistance and support.

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Journal of Unification Studies

Volume XIV - (2013)

Paradoxes of life: challenges, responses, and the meaning of life.

• Noda, Keisuke

Journal of Unification Studies Vol. 14, 2013 - Pages 107-126

From birth to death, life is filled with challenges. One is born into challenges, encounters a series of challenges, and faces death as the final enigmatic gate of no return. In order to cope with these challenges, the so-called positive thinking literature offers various tools and practical advice. We hear the popular parlance everywhere; “Whatever comes upon you, take a positive attitude. Every challenge is an opportunity for success. Think positively, you will be happy and successful!” Positive thinking often appeals to the public with its promise of personal success, leading people to wealth and happiness. Positive thinking has its own merits and values. I neither disvalue nor discredit its contributions. Because of the purpose and nature of its inquiry, the positive thinking literature does not deal with in-depth philosophical analysis. Although it is not the primary intent of this essay, this essay will supplement this literature by providing the missing philosophical elements.

Positive thinking is paradoxical. When challenges are minor, we do not need to try to think positively. We can take challenges for granted and overcome them. When, on the other hand, the challenges are too severe, positive thinking sounds too optimistic and hardly helpful, at least to this author. Do common sayings such as, “think positively; challenge is an opportunity for success!” work for those in extremely difficult circumstances? Is this thought effective, for example, for a prisoner in Auschwitz, a Nazi concentration camp? The prisoner will reply, “What chance? What do you mean by opportunity? Opportunity for what?”

Under such severe and incomprehensible conditions, even God can be put on trial. Elie Wiesel recounted his experience in Auschwitz and produced a play, The Trial of God . [1] Wiesel was fifteen when he was taken into Auschwitz. He witnessed three rabbis indict God behind a shack in Auschwitz: “Three rabbis—all erudite and pious men—decided one evening to indict God for allowing His children to be massacred. I remember: I was there, and I felt like crying. But there nobody cried.” [2] The verdict was guilty but the trial ended with a silent prayer joined by all at the mock trial. Matthew Fox, a professor of spirituality, noted in the Afterword of the book that the play disclosed a dimension of spirituality:

The question in the trial is known as theodicy in theological terms: If God is good, benevolent, and almighty, why does He allow evil in the world? This is one of the fundamental questions at the root of the absurdity of life and the world we live in.

Philosophers and theologians have raised this question since antiquity, yet the question remains a puzzle to this day. When one encounters extremely difficult problems, one may similarly ask God: “Why me?”

One can extend this question of theodicy to the meaning of his or her existence and ask God: “Why was I born to the world? Why do I have to keep living the life I did not choose?” When one asks his or her parents, “Why did you give birth to me?” They may equally ask, “Why were you born from us?” From the fact of birth to genetic makeup and one’s social, historical environment, one has no choice and no answer. From birth to death, one encounters a series of challenges in life and is compelled to seek the meaning of life and its challenges.

In this essay, I attempt to provide a philosophical analysis of the meaning of challenges in life. First, I examine common challenges that fall upon each person as “fate,” or challenges that are imposed on each individual without his or her choice, and I explore the mechanisms by which challenges inform a person’s life. Second, I attempt to clarify the process of how challenges become meaningful to each person. I try to answer the question of why and how our responses to challenges are an integral part of the meaning of life. I argue that life becomes meaningful by the way each individual responds the challenges imposed on him or her. Third, I will present how the concept of the original human nature in Unification Thought, such as love (heart), truth (logos), and creativity, sheds light on the way one copes with challenges. [4] I will illustrate how love makes life rich, truth makes it authentic, and creativity makes it joyful or bearable. Finally I will explain how the meaning of life is disclosed retrospectively to the individual only after he or she overcomes challenges and how meaning accumulates and resonates within a hermeneutic part-and-whole relationship in one’s life. I will conclude the essay by pointing out how the unique authentic self emerges as the integral unity of meaning out of the processes of challenge-and-response. As a background of this analysis, I apply a perspective that the world has a built-in mechanism of indeterminacy, which in turn opens the possibility to see the events of life as a non-causal explanatory model. I adopt a perspective that sees the world and life as play in reference to the concept of Flow and attempt to clarify the elusive and paradoxical mechanism of life from the perspective of Unification Thought.

Challenges and the Human Discourse

In this section, I will examine the challenges of life from life’s bookends: death and birth. First, I will explore the challenges that humans face under the threat of death and will draw on Viktor Frankl’s testimonies. Second, I will explore why and how the circumstances of one’s birth have a lasting effect on one’s life. I will introduce a sociological principle of accumulated effects of advantages and disadvantages called the Matthew Effect. This principle is not a direct explanation of the social effects of one’s genetic makeup, but this principle implies the lasting effects of one’s given conditions.

Individual attitudes towards the challenge of death

The paradoxical tension between challenge and response seems built into the mechanism of life. For carbon to become a diamond, it requires extreme heat and pressure. Similarly, the best in each person is cultivated and discovered often in difficult circumstances. For the majority of individuals, however, challenges in life appear as a harsh reality, meaningless, absurd or even cruel. Is there any way to cope with such extreme challenges in life? If a philosophy of life is not speculative imagination or wishful thinking but a solid, workable set of ideas, it has to be proven. How does one approach such extremely challenging circumstances?

At the age 39, October 1944, Viktor Frankl and his wife were transported to the Auschwitz concentration camp. In the concentration camp, one is stripped of everything and anything humanly possible. In such circumstances, we can easily imagine that anything is possible. One does not have to worry about any moral or legal consequences of his or her actions because anybody can go to the gas chamber any day. Under such circumstances where one is immune from any legal and moral punishment, how does one act? When nothing is possible, anything is possible.

Put differently, such circumstances strips people of their social roles and masks. In ordinary social life, people play various social roles and wear so-called masks [5] or socially defined self-identities according to those social roles. Although the self is constituted of multiple layers of identities, one hardly encounters the most essential element of the self, which is often concealed under socially defined identities. One often does not realize what he or she truly values, is, or even can be. Extreme situations such as a concentration camp strips off those masks, be good or bad, and lays bare something one does not normally see in the self. Frankl noted that he saw, what he called, “human qualities” in the harshest circumstances:

Among the variety of responses by fellow prisoners to the situation, Frankl points out that a simple caring action by a fellow prisoner deeply touched the heart: “It was far more than the small piece of bread which moved me to tears at that time. It was the human “something” which this man also gave to me—the word and look which accompanied the gift.” [7]

In challenging circumstances, where one’s own survival is at stake, no one blames someone for the lack of care or concern for others. Yet, it is a startling fact that someone in Auschwitz could still show human qualities. Such circumstances are, in a sense, a testing ground and an opportunity where the best and the worst of human natures can come out.

In Auschwitz, Frankl witnessed different attitudes. Some became active Nazi collaborators. Many lost the hope to live, became apathetic, and fell into a vegetative state. In Auschwitz, the Nazis selected prison guard assistants from the fellow prisoners. Frankl notes that those Jewish prison guard assistants were far crueler and brutal than Nazi guards. Probably partly out of fear and partly out of a desire for acceptance by the Nazi officers and to show their loyalty, they became crueler than Nazi guards. It may also be the case that the most vicious ones were selected. [8]

Frankl also notes that when people came to Auschwitz, the thought of suicide crosses their minds at least once or twice. But, the idea of suicide soon disappears because they realize that they will die anyway. Some, however, decided to die. They stopped coming out of bed and lining up in the food line. [9]

In such extreme circumstances, what thoughts crossed their minds? In the midst of despair, Frankl points out, prisoners kept wishing and hoping for the wellbeing of beloved ones: meeting again with spouses, children, parents, and other family members. An ordinary scene of a lovely family dinner table appeared again and again in their minds. He notes, it is love that dominates the deepest part of the soul:

It is notable that a human being has the freedom to care about someone else even under the harshest conditions. When challenges press hard on a person, he or she can easily become closed-minded. Frankl’s account is a testimony of truth that human beings retain the possibility of opening one’s heart to others even if almost all other possibilities are taken away.

Challenges and the Matthew Effect: The cumulative effects of advantage and disadvantage at birth

Even at the beginning of one’s life, challenges seem to usher us into the world. “Why was I born to this world which is filled with all sorts of misery and suffering?” “Why do I have to live a life I did not choose?” The fact that one begins life without choice and reason poses such difficult questions. For example, one is born with a specific genetic makeup. Just as a child cannot choose his or her parents, parents cannot choose their child. One’s genetic makeup accounts for skin color, eye color, looks, height, physique, and much of an individual. Parents also receive their genetic makeup from their parents. In the same way, one’s social and family environments are predetermined; some are born with a silver spoon while others are born in poverty.

The fact of those determinants does not raise any issues insofar as they appear as assets. We often ascribe social success, whatever it means, to individuals’ efforts and virtues, and success stories are basically built on the praises of those who turned difficulties into success. It is true that nothing happens without one’s efforts and virtues. Yet, it is equally true that both advantages and disadvantages have cumulative effects. In other words, so-called success cannot be ascribed solely to an individual’s efforts and virtues, and the social reasons for “success” should not be overlooked.

Sociologist Robert Merton conducted classic sociological studies on the reward mechanism in the sciences and coined the term for such cumulative effects of social advantages and disadvantages “Mathew Effects,” in reference to Matthew 25:29 of Bible, which reads: “For to all those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away.” [11] Although the Biblical narrative means something else, Merton adopted the passage to symbolize what he found in the reward mechanism in the sciences: “The Matthew effect may serve to heighten the visibility of contributions to sciences by scientists of acknowledged standing and to reduce the visibility of contributions by authors who are less well known.” [12] [13]  

When an eminent scientist and a lesser known scientist collaborated and published findings in scientific journals as co-authors, the eminent one received the credit. In some cases, Merton found that even when the prominent scientist acknowledged the lesser one’s contribution, the eminent scientist received the credit. Similarly, Merton pointed out, when a prominent scientist and a lesser known scientist made the same discovery around the same time, the prominent one received the credit: “As originally identified, the Matthew Effect was construed in terms of enhancement of the position of already eminent scientists who are given disproportionate credit in cases of collaboration or of independent multiple discoveries.” [14]

The same is true for institutions. Prominent intuitions tend to receive more funds, which also attract prominent scientists. The elite institutions and eminent scientists create a spiraling effect and generate more sociological advantages. Scientists who are successful early in their career tend to receive generous grants and find employment at elite institutions.

After Merton, researchers examined the principle of self-amplification in diverse areas including science, technology, economy, politics, public policy, education, and culture. Daniel Rigney, a sociologist at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, compiled those finding and gave a coherent account in The Matthew Effect: How Advantage Begets Further Advantage . [15] Rigney uses the analogy of a “social escalator”: “Opportunity structures are like social escalators, providing upward momentum to those who, whether through earned or unearned advantage, manage to reach the lower steps. Presumably, others must use the stairs.” [16]  

The Matthew Effect is a sociological conceptualization of a common saying: “The rich get richer and the poor get poorer.” In real life situations, whether right or wrong, those who are already in advantageous positions tend to protect and maintain the mechanism: “Those who benefit from Matthew Effect strive to protect not only their golden eggs, but also the goose that laid them.” [17] This reality allowed for the prevalence of this principle.

When we consider the success or achievement of individual, we cannot ignore such social effects that are like the tide or a wave that propels or drowns an individual: “the privileged are riding the crest of an impersonal wave, not of their own making, but from which they benefit nonetheless, while others less fortunate are dragged beneath the wave in its undertow.” [18]

As almost all researches acknowledge, this principle is not a transcendent principle beyond human response and action. As Rigney notes, one must consider social policies and mechanisms in order to counter-balance this principle:

In cybernetics and system theory, counterbalancing mechanisms are called “negative feedback loops” which control and stabilize system imbalance. The Matthew Effect has the opposite effect, perpetuating “positive feedback loops” which “typically amplify deviations from set points and thereby destabilize systems.” [20] In social contexts, it describes the phenomena of widening the gap between the advantaged and the disadvantaged.

Implications of the Matthew Effect

The Matthew Effect implies that life’s beginning, including genetic makeup and external conditions, has lasting effects on the rest of life. Needless to say, social conditions change over time and it is possible for individuals to turn disadvantages into advantages, and vice-versa. So-called success stories describe exceptional individuals who reversed the odds and made successes out of dire conditions. But, it is a mistake to over-exaggerate such exceptional stories and ignore the reality of the Matthew Effect. We cannot conceal the fact that there are far more individuals who are suppressed under social constraints than the lucky few or protectors of vested interests. The Matthew Effect suggests a lack of fairness and the social consequence of burying talented individuals.

The Matthew Effect, however, seems to have positive effects as well, especially for cases in which an individual made noticeable accomplishments early on. When society recognizes talented individuals, this mechanism can help them to develop their potential and maximize their possible contribution to society. Their work in turn can benefit other members of society by their overall contribution to a society. Although society needs some counterbalancing mechanism to provide fair and open access to all, this counterbalancing mechanism should not hinder the development of talented individuals. Therefore, while a counterbalancing mechanism is necessary to achieve fairness, it requires a subtle and thoughtful approach so as to nurture and promote talented individuals.

The challenge of evil

Evil is another challenge to human endeavor. I, however, do not pursue the question of good and evil in this essay. I simply wish to point out that evil or negative forces are a part of the challenges of everyday life. For this essay, I will focus on broadly ontological and hermeneutical rather than ethical questions. In “Tipping Point of Good and Evil,” [21] I elaborated on two forces that can turn one to evil: one internal and another external. In that article, I presented how power and immunity from legal and moral punishment can tip one’s orientation to evil. For example, Plato in Book II of the Republic (2.359a–2.360d) presented the legend of the Magic Ring of Gygess to illustrate how an ordinary individual can easily turn into a murderer. [22] The story was used by J. R. R. Tolkien in The Hobbit (1937) and The Lord of the Rings (1954–55).

Life as Challenge-and-Response: Indeterminacy, Chance, and Game

Anticipation, hope, and indeterminacy.

When we face challenges, we wonder and naturally seek some explanation. Some seek a causal explanation. Magicians, shamans, fortunetellers, and astrologers from antiquity supplied various versions of speculative explanations to satisfy the needs of those who seek “causal” explanations. This type of explanation is quasi-scientific in nature. The assumption is that every event in life has a cause. The simplicity of a linear causal explanation is especially appealing to those who enjoy speculation. Others seek the intervention of God and attempt to gain control over the cause of misfortune or bad events. This approach still raises the question, is there a cause for all phenomena? If so, what about freedom? Can God intervene in everything? If so, why didn’t, or wouldn’t, God prevent horrific evils?

From human action to natural phenomena, however, there always is an element of indeterminacy. We can talk about probability and a degree of likelihood of particular outcome, but not with absolute certainty. Each individual, for example, lives with a sense of indeterminacy. Expectation, anticipation, hope, and belief are necessary elements of life, if life is to be joyful. Life becomes joyful through the process in which those anticipatory elements become realized. Joy is basically a process, not a static thing or property. At the same time, each individual lives with a sense of anticipation, hoping at times, and expecting certain events to occur based on probabilities.

Just as the mind and the individual self exist with indeterminacy, the mechanism of reality likewise appears to have room for indeterminacy. If the world is constructed by rigid causal mechanism without any space of indeterminacy, such anticipatory factors of mind do not make sense. By contrast, if the world is completely random, the anticipatory facet of the mind does not make sense either. The anticipatory aspect of the mind that hopes, expects and believes is meaningful only when the world is built upon the principle of indeterminacy which operates under the principle of probability.

Life is neither a chain of events dominated by a rigid mechanistic causality nor a collection of chaotic random occurrences. In between these two extreme views, life appears manageable while having its unexpected turns. As a result of this indeterminacy, life is interesting.

Life as a game: between boredom and apathy

Similarly, life lies in between boredom and apathy. If the challenges far exceed one’s ability to cope with them, one falls into apathy; one becomes indifferent to challenges, probably out of a self-defense mechanism. On the other hand, if there are no challenges in life, one feels boredom. Youth feel thirsty for challenges and tend to make even dangerous attempts.

If tasks are overwhelmingly difficult, one may become indifferent to them. An individual feels the meaning of his or her efforts only when those efforts contribute, even in the smallest degree or even only within his or her imagination, to overcoming the difficulties. When one feels absolutely defenseless and impotent in coping with challenges, life itself loses meaning. Despair is the state of mind when one feels that his or her efforts are meaningless. In despair, one may even find hope in death, and suicide becomes a possibility when death, ironically, appears to be the only hope.

At the same time, for a challenge to be meaningful to an individual, there must be a proper balance between capability and a degree of difficulty. When one overcomes one challenge and becomes skillful, the same work may not appear as challenging. What was once demanding becomes a routine task once a person develops the necessary skills and his or her capabilities far exceed the task at hand. Once the work becomes routine, what was once a challenge may not provide the same level of excitement that it provided before.

One way to see life, then, is as a process of challenges-and-responses; to see life as a game. [23] A game has three basic characteristics. First, a game consists of certain rules or determinants and an undetermined element of chance. Because of this indeterminacy, the game is fun. Second, players can develop their skills. Every step in a game is a unique test which challenges each player, allowing players to experience the development of their skills. Third, games are essentially fun. Games are self-sufficient in that the goal is not external to the activity, but the object (to have fun) exists in the activity itself. Although winning is a reward that is part of the game, the joy of the game lies in its pursuit. Forgetfulness of ego-consciousness, a symptom of the total psycho-somatic involvement, otherwise called “mind-body unity,” is realized in the activity of gaming. [24] This analogy of life as a game is consistent with the Unificationist concept that Rev. Moon described as the “Hobby life.” [25]

Hermeneutical Inquiry: The Meaning of Challenges—Creativity, Truth, and Love

If life is a series of challenges and responses, what is the point of responding to challenges? Is it simply an instinctual behavior for the sake of survival? In this section, I explore and attempt to clarify the complex mechanism of challenge-and-response in life. The primary approach is a hermeneutical one in the sense that the primary goal is to elucidate the meaning of the mechanism. In order to answer the question of how challenges in life are meant to cultivate individual potential, I adopt three aspects of the human being: creativity, truth, and love, deriving inspiration from Theory of Original Human Nature in Unification Thought. [26] I examine how challenges are meant to cultivate those natures, thereby establishing the thesis that challenge is a necessary built-in mechanism of life.

As an initial point, hermeneutics is a general theory of interpretation, which has its origin in the interpretation of religious texts and laws. [27] Among all hermeneutic principles, the most basic one is the part-whole relationship. In interpreting an event, for example, the whole can be the framework of interpretation. The meaning of an event is determined by its relationship within the framework of interpretation. For example, in linguistics, the meaning of a word is determined by how it is used in the whole syntactical and semantic totality of a given language. If the part-whole rule is applied to the question of the meaning of the challenge-and-response mechanism, the inquiry requires a clarification of what the totality of human life amounts to, which raises the difficulty of hermeneutic circularity.

Hermeneutic circularity means a circular relationship between a part and the whole. In the context of this essay, this circular relationship exists between a particular challenge in life and the totality of life as a whole. The meaning of each challenge in life can be clarified in its role within the context of overall meaning of life. The overall meaning of life, however, can be clarified along with the clarification of each challenge. If we presuppose and impose a pre-set “meaning of life” based on some speculation, we have no methodological difficulty. But this linear reasoning does not explain the mechanism of human understanding. Human understanding is essentially circular rather than linear. Linear reasoning in the sense of the dogmatic application of pre-set ideas and beliefs is a type of discourse that seeks to classify, categorize, and typify things. It is a type of mechanical or functional reasoning. It however cannot explain the dynamic open process of human discourse, a type of discourse necessary for interpretation. For this reason, I do not use a linear mechanical discourse but use hermeneutical circular discourse.

As I will explain in this section, the meaning of life is disclosed to the individual along with the process of discovering the meanings of each challenge. I hold that the whole meaning of life is a dynamic totality of interpretation and re-interpretation of a series of life events. The meaning of a particular life event changes and evolves along with the changes of one’s horizon or context of interpretation. The discovery of the meaning in each challenge broadens one’s horizon of interpretation, and each new horizon gives new meaning to previous challenges. This description of the dynamic movement of interpretation between part and whole, that is, between a particular challenge and the whole context of interpretation, is a proper method to disclose the meaning of life and its challenges. In this section, I will use creativity, truth, and love as guiding threads to describe the hermeneutic circularity.    

Be Creative: Creativity and optimal experience

Creativity is the capacity to play with reality by generating innovative ideas, perspectives, visions, and approaches. It includes the capability to change one’s perspective to interpret a challenge, and change one’s attitude and stance towards challenge. It is also the ability to re-contextualize, cope with, and play with a given challenge. Because of its playful, flexible characteristic, creativity is distinguished from the rigid calculative function of the mind or the rule-following of theoretical reasoning.

Creativity seems to be a key aspect of play. When one is creative, he or she experiences the process of life as joy. One may call this optimal experience of life as “flow,” following Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi who coined the term. Csikszentmihalyi defined “flow” as “joy, creativity, the process of total involvement with life.” It is “autotelic,” a self-sufficient experience “rewarding in and of itself.” [28] The structure of challenge-and-response is a mechanism of life which is meant to generate such an optimal, joyful experience.

Material wealth, free time, and freedom from duties and obligation do not make life joyful and meaningful by themselves. Without challenges, one rather feels boredom. Csikszentmihalyi notes that it is challenge that makes life exciting and meaningful: “Optimal experience requires increasing challenges and the development of skills apace. Life is meaningful only when people feel that the psychic energy they expend in the course of daily life strengthens their life. Growth must be factored into the equation for a good life.” [29]

How can we understand the challenge-and-response when the challenge seems to be far exceeding one’s coping ability? Under such extreme circumstances, life no longer appears as a game but presents itself as a harsh reality or even a brutal force. One can be pushed to the edge of life and death.

I still argue that life is essentially a game-like being. Challenges are rarely minor; if they are manageable one would likely approach it as a routine task. A task becomes a challenge only when it is large enough to overwhelm the person. The problem occurs when one loses sight of the fact that one can always step back from the challenge and find a way to cope with it. There are a number of ways one can take: finding a small step toward the task; finding a different route; bracketing the whole issue, observing the situation, and seeing the situation from different perspective; getting help from others. There is always buffer space between the self and reality, and the biggest problem occurs when one loses sight of this fact and life appears as rigid, inflexible, and impossible. It is illuminating to discover that even in the severest circumstances, one has a room to play with reality. The loss of this buffer space in life is an invitation to despair.

When one keeps in mind the space between the self and reality, one can discover new ways to approaches challenges. In fact, the greatest discovery is often made under the most difficult challenges. For example, in Auschwitz, finding humanity in the most inhumane circumstances must be a surprise not only for those who received kindness but also for the one who “could” be kind to others. One’s hidden potential or possibilities are unveiled or discovered often under improbable or impossible circumstances.

If one loses sight of the space between the self and reality, one loses the ability to transform or discover. In that sense, the prospect of facing a severe challenge is a gamble, making life a dangerous game. If one lost a buffer between the self and the reality, one loses a space of transformation or discovery. Severe challenge is, in this sense, a gamble or a dangerous game of life or death.

Be Truthful: Becoming the authentic unique self

One of the essential characteristics of human life is that it is always one’s own. No one can live another person’s life. One can have empathy toward another person, but cannot experience something on behalf of someone else. In Being and Time , Heidegger presented the concept of a “being-toward-death” as one of the essential characteristics of one’s existence. He pointed out that death makes one be aware of the self as a unique irreplaceable being. [30] No matter how others are present at one’s death, one dies “one’s own death.”

In Unificationism, each individual is conceptualized as an “Individual Embodiment of Truth.” [31] This concept points to a perspective that truth has an element of individuation and each person is the substantial embodiment of truth in its unique way. [32] [33] To become authentic, one has to try to be truthful to oneself. This, however, presupposes that truth is pre-existing within the self and it guides and leads one. It is truth which guides one who is trying to be truthful to the self.

Thus, what distinguishes one’s life from the lives of all others is the identity of the self. All events in life are individuated as part of a particular individual’s life. What is consistent in one’s life, which has all kinds of changes and influences, comprises one’s identity and the life of a particular individual.

Similarly, challenges are also unique to an individual; further, the way a challenge presents itself to an individual, and the way that individual processes that challenge, is unique to that individual. For example, an ordinary romantic relationship with a girl became a major issue for Kierkegaard. After one year from the date of engagement, Kierkegaard sent a letter to break the engagement because he “loved” her. He revisited and reinterpreted this event throughout his philosophical life and it became an important source of inspiration. [34] This illustrates how even a simple, ordinary event can turn into the key to decode philosophical and personal issues that are unique to each individual.

Ultimately, these challenges seem to lead each individual to becoming an authentic unique self. This uniqueness is important aspect of value as well. In other words, the meaning of one’s life is tied to the question of an individual’s intrinsic value. It is important to note that uniqueness seems to be an achievement rather than a commonplace matter of fact. When one is trying to be true to oneself, one is led to become a unique self through the process of self-discovery.

Responding to challenges, in turn, cultivates an individual’s unique potential. What is the best in each individual is yet to be discovered and cultivated. The effort to respond to internal challenges from the outside, and to explore various solutions for life’s challenges and issues, cultivates the internal potential of the individual. Thus, the process of overcoming challenges leads to the discovery of the self; external exploration and internal exploration are thus parallel phenomena.

This discovery of the self is a personal process of individuation. Only the individual who is facing challenge can find the self, and the keys to solving that challenge, such as insights, ideas, and inspirations, are unique to that person. Originality is born out of one’s attempts to decode the issue at hand. To become the original unique self is not so much an artificial construct as a natural process.

Retrospective discovery of the meaning of challenge

There is no answer to the question of why particular challenges befall a certain individual. Furthermore, one does not start questioning about one’s life until one reaches certain age. Nevertheless, if the meaning of challenge is understood as within the part-whole relationship, the meaning of a challenge can be understood in retrospect; further, the meaning of a certain challenge may change, depending on the changes in one’s context and one’s horizons of interpretation.

In addition, challenges often open up a new horizon of interpretation by transforming the individual. When one overcomes a challenge, one sees the self and the world differently. One finds the self with new eyes, redefines the self, and gains a new horizon of interpretation. The new interpretive framework allows one to re-interpret his or her experiences differently or add additional layers of meaning. Those layers of meanings are built up like a dynamic elastic buffer, within which the meaning of each experience resonates.

Be Caring: Enrichment of meaning of life by love and shared life

Each individual is an autonomous, self-governing being. Each has an inviolable, sacred realm of freedom with which nobody else, not even God, can intervene. The concept of the autonomy of individual is primarily discussed within ethical contexts. For Kant, a major thinker on the issue of moral autonomy, it means one’s capacity to respect and impose the moral law upon oneself. This self-regulating mechanism of human beings is distinguished from heteronomous material things which are regulated by laws external to themselves. In the current context, I use autonomy in a broader sense of self-governance. Precisely because one is free to choose one’s life, one seems to be ultimately responsible for one’s life.

Because one has an inviolable realm of freedom, some may argue that one is ultimately and entirely responsible for his or her life because it is the product of his or her choice. We hear common phrases such as “Your life is the result of your thought, belief, and wish” or “Your life is the result of your choice. Wish and believe strongly, and you will get the life you want.” This is, however, only partly true.

First, while one has an inviolable realm of freedom, the range of choices is determined in considerable degree, if not absolutely, by one’s socio-historical environment and genetic makeup. In short, an individual’s choice is not a selection in a socially and historically value-free space. The social space is more like a social, historical magnetic field where various powers, forces, and interests are at work. Some social mechanisms literally limit the possibility of one’s choices. For example, events such as wars, financial crises, natural disasters, and other social, historical, and natural events can considerably limit the range of individual choice. In some cases, these external forces entirely take away freedom in the ordinary meaning of the term. For example, if a person happened to be a Jew during World War II in Europe, of if he or she was a young German, social circumstances would affect the range of choices available for that person.

Second, the life of an individual is not made up by that individual alone. If one examines one’s life, one can easily find how other people’s lives constitute his or her life. Human lives intersect as one’s life becomes a part of someone’s life, and another person’s life becomes a part of his or her life. If one tries to eradicate all others, life will become empty. While physical bodies are separated, minds intersect, resonate, and co-exist. Metaphorically speaking, “My body lives in the physical house but “I” as a human being lives in the heart of someone who loves or cares for me.”

Thus, love is a critical part of one’s life, and we co-exist by sharing lives. An individual’s life is thus a product of not only individual decisions, but life is comprised of layers of other people’s lives. For example, the love relationship of father and mother underlie an individual’s existence. For this reason, Viktor Frankl observed that one would reflect upon such relationships in life-and-death situations; as love is found at the root of human life, love may be found in the life beyond death.

By caring for others, an individual can invite others to become part of his or her life and also offer his or her life for the betterment of others’ lives. The act of opening up one’s heart also liberates the self from the bondage of hatred and prejudice, and allows one to help others by dedicating one’s services and life for the wellbeing of others. In these shared relationships, one’s joy adds to the joy of others, and others’ joy contributes to one’s joy. Love and care thus enhance and amplify one’s experience, making life rich. In loving relationships, one’s sadness and suffering are also enhanced. Nevertheless, the sharing of burdens is a part of an enriched life.

Conclusion: Paradoxes of Life

In this essay, I attempt to view life as a game-like process of challenge-and-response. Faced with challenging circumstances, one can take three approaches: to be creative, to be truthful, and to be caring. One can make life exciting, interesting, and joyful, or at least bearable, by being creative. By being truthful, one can become an authentic, unique self. By having an open heart and following a caring and loving way of life, one can have a rich life. Love, truth, and creativity ideally can work not in isolation but in concert with one another.

The meaning of life, I believe, is not some kind of fixed object one tries to reach and find. It is rather a kind of being that emerges out of the process of challenge-and-response. Its discovery is parallel to one’s self-discovery and the discovery of solutions for the tasks at hand. Through the process of overcoming challenges from outside of the self, one cultivates one’s inner potentialities. Overcoming internal obstacles inside of the self empowers one to cope with challenges from the outside. The process of challenge-and-response adds a dynamic element to both the internal and external mechanisms of an individual’s development.

This essay discusses primarily how individuals can respond to challenges. As I discussed in the section on the Matthew Effect and elsewhere, it is important to create a positive and fair social environment. The idea of creativity, truth, and love, I believe, can be applied to institutions, organizations, and communities as well. To be creative, to be truthful, and to be caring can be applied to those collective entities. Just as individuals can better cope with challenges by developing these three aspects, collective entities can also cope with challenges by creating institutional or organizational cultures with these characteristics. [35] Social environments that embody love, truth, and creativity can be innovative, exciting, joyful, and ethical. The efforts of individuals to cultivate these characteristics within themselves and the efforts of collective entities to do the same can generate a synergy to enhance efforts by both.

Life is paradoxical. It is hard to live when one cannot handle challenges. The harshest challenges can lead one to despair, suicidal thoughts, and insanity. We often wish that we did not have to face challenges. But, it is also true that one cannot bear a life without any challenge. For life to be exciting and joyful, life needs challenge. It is ironic that one can bring out the best under the most difficult circumstances, yet, those circumstances may threaten one’s life altogether. Under any circumstance, life has an indeterminate buffer that allows for play. The essay is intended to clarify these enigmatic mechanisms of life to help us become better players of the game of life.

[1] Elie Wiesel, The Trial of God (As It Was Held on February 25, 1649, in Shamgorod): A Play in Three Acts (New York: Random House, 1979). The play was aired on PBS and a DVD is available: Jemma Rodgers, Frank Cottrell Boyce, Andy De Emmony, Josef Altin, Ashley Artus, Dominic Cooper, Lorcan Cranitch, David De Keyser, Stephen Dillane, and Rupert Graves, God on Trial , WGBH Boston Video, 2009.

[2] Ibid., cover notes.

[3] Ibid., p. 165.

[4] In the “theory of the original human nature” of Unification Thought, heart, logos, and creativity constitute Divine Character. See Unification Thought Institute, New Essentials of Unification Thought: Head-wing Thought (Tokyo: Kogensya, 2006), pp. 164-172.

[5] Carl Jung called social identity “persona,” which is like a mask an actor and actress wears in a play. The self is constituted of multiple personas as well as ego-consciousness and other elements of unconsciousness such as complex and libido.

[6] Viktor E. Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning (Boston: Beacon Press, 2006), p. 87.

[7] Ibid., p. 86.

[8] Ibid., p. 4.

[9] Ibid., p. 74.

[10] Ibid., p. 37.

[11] Matthew 25:29, New Revised Standard Version.

[12] Robert K. Merton, “The Matthew Effect of Science: The reward and communication systems of science are considered,” Science , 159 (January 5, 1968): 62.

[13] Some journals have introduced “blind peer review” as a selection procedure for their academic journals. Under this method, the author’s name was sealed to reviewers so that reviewers can select by the merit of article alone. This is one attempt to prevent a biased selection.

[14] Merton, “The Matthew Effect.”

[15] Daniel Rigney, The Matthew Effect: How Advantage Begets Further Advantage (New York: Columbia University Press, 2010).

[16] Ibid., p. 19.

[17] Ibid., p. 105.

[18] Ibid., p. 104.

[19] Ibid., p. 24.

[20] Ibid., p. 5.

[21] Keisuke Noda, “Tipping Point of Good and Evil: The Power of Authentic Love in Moral Discourse,” Journal of Unification Studies 13 (2012).

[22] Edith Hamilton and Huntington Cairns, eds. The Collected Dialogues of Plato, Including the Letters (New York: Pantheon Books, 1961), pp. 607-08

[23] The game analogy raises the idea of viewing life as “risk management.” Peter Bernstein, an investment analyst and financial historian, gives a comprehensive analysis of the origin, history, and effects of the concept of risk in Peter L. Bernstein, Against the Gods: The Remarkable Story of Risk (New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1996).

[24] There are a number of notable studies on the playful nature of human life and culture. The three best known works are: Johan Huizinga, Homo Ludens: A Study of the Play Element in Culture (London: Maurice Temple Smith Ltd, 1970); Roger Caillois, Man, Play, and Games (New York: Schocken Books, 1979); and Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience (New York: Harper & Row, 1990).

[25] On Rev. Moon’s vision for the ocean leisure industry and hobby industry, see Cheon Seong Gyeong (Family Federation of Word Peace and Unification, 2006), pp. 1908-1914.

[26] New Essentials of Unification Thought , pp. 164-172.

[27] In the twentieth century, Heidegger developed hermeneutic phenomenology and applied it to the question of the meaning of being. Hans-Georg Gadamer, a student of Heidegger, expanded the hermetical component of Heidegger’s philosophy and established hermeneutics as the philosophical methodology. Both Heidegger’s and Gadamer’s hermeneutics are called “philosophical hermeneutics.” See Hans-Georg Gadamer, Truth and Method (New York: Crossroad, 1989).

[28] Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and Isabella Selega Csikszentmihalyi, Optimal Experience: Psychological Studies of Flow in Consciousness (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1988), p. 8.

[29] Ibid. p. 377.

[30] See “Division Two: Dasein and Temporality, I. Dasein’s Possibility of Being-a-whole, and Being-toward-death,” in Martin Heidegger, Being and Time , trans. John Macquarrie (New York: Harper, 1962), or the more recent translation, Martin Heidegger and Joan Stambaugh, Being and Time: A Translation of Sein Und Zeit . (Albany, NY: State University of New York Press, 1996).

[31] Exposition of the Divine Principle (New York: HSA-UWC, 1996), p. 28.

[32] For the notion of truth as embodiment, see: Keisuke Noda, “Understanding the Word as the Process of Embodiment,” Journal of Unification Studies 1 (1997): 55-70. http://journals.uts.edu/volume-i-1997/71-understanding-the-word-as-the-process-of-embodiment.html (Accessed February 28, 2013).

[33] Truth is mediated by linguistic representations including the mathematical, which are inter-subjectively or objectively constructed. Linguistic representation or mediation of truth allows us to see universal aspect of truth. Human understanding is, however, uniquely individuated as his or her own experience.

[34] Søren Kierkegaard, David F. Swenson, Lillian Marvin Swenson, and Walter Lowrie, Either/or; A Fragment of Life (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1944).

[35] Arnold Toynbee, A Study of History (London: Oxford University Press; Thames and Hudson, 1972) adopted the concept of challenge-and-response to explain the birth and decline of civilizations.

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• How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on January 11, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on August 15, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . It usually comes near the end of your introduction .

Your thesis will look a bit different depending on the type of essay you’re writing. But the thesis statement should always clearly state the main idea you want to get across. Everything else in your essay should relate back to this idea.

You can write your thesis statement by following four simple steps:

• Start with a question
• Write your initial answer
• Develop your answer
• Refine your thesis statement

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Table of contents

What is a thesis statement, placement of the thesis statement, step 1: start with a question, step 2: write your initial answer, step 3: develop your answer, step 4: refine your thesis statement, types of thesis statements, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis statements.

A thesis statement summarizes the central points of your essay. It is a signpost telling the reader what the essay will argue and why.

The best thesis statements are:

• Concise: A good thesis statement is short and sweet—don’t use more words than necessary. State your point clearly and directly in one or two sentences.
• Contentious: Your thesis shouldn’t be a simple statement of fact that everyone already knows. A good thesis statement is a claim that requires further evidence or analysis to back it up.
• Coherent: Everything mentioned in your thesis statement must be supported and explained in the rest of your paper.

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The thesis statement generally appears at the end of your essay introduction or research paper introduction .

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts and among young people more generally is hotly debated. For many who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education: the internet facilitates easier access to information, exposure to different perspectives, and a flexible learning environment for both students and teachers.

You should come up with an initial thesis, sometimes called a working thesis , early in the writing process . As soon as you’ve decided on your essay topic , you need to work out what you want to say about it—a clear thesis will give your essay direction and structure.

You might already have a question in your assignment, but if not, try to come up with your own. What would you like to find out or decide about your topic?

For example, you might ask:

After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process .

Now you need to consider why this is your answer and how you will convince your reader to agree with you. As you read more about your topic and begin writing, your answer should get more detailed.

In your essay about the internet and education, the thesis states your position and sketches out the key arguments you’ll use to support it.

The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education because it facilitates easier access to information.

In your essay about braille, the thesis statement summarizes the key historical development that you’ll explain.

The invention of braille in the 19th century transformed the lives of blind people, allowing them to participate more actively in public life.

A strong thesis statement should tell the reader:

• Why you hold this position
• What they’ll learn from your essay
• The key points of your argument or narrative

The final thesis statement doesn’t just state your position, but summarizes your overall argument or the entire topic you’re going to explain. To strengthen a weak thesis statement, it can help to consider the broader context of your topic.

These examples are more specific and show that you’ll explore your topic in depth.

Your thesis statement should match the goals of your essay, which vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing:

• In an argumentative essay , your thesis statement should take a strong position. Your aim in the essay is to convince your reader of this thesis based on evidence and logical reasoning.
• In an expository essay , you’ll aim to explain the facts of a topic or process. Your thesis statement doesn’t have to include a strong opinion in this case, but it should clearly state the central point you want to make, and mention the key elements you’ll explain.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

• Ask a question about your topic .
• Write your initial answer.
• Develop your answer by including reasons.
• Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

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Thesis Statements

What this handout is about.

This handout describes what a thesis statement is, how thesis statements work in your writing, and how you can craft or refine one for your draft.

Introduction

Writing in college often takes the form of persuasion—convincing others that you have an interesting, logical point of view on the subject you are studying. Persuasion is a skill you practice regularly in your daily life. You persuade your roommate to clean up, your parents to let you borrow the car, your friend to vote for your favorite candidate or policy. In college, course assignments often ask you to make a persuasive case in writing. You are asked to convince your reader of your point of view. This form of persuasion, often called academic argument, follows a predictable pattern in writing. After a brief introduction of your topic, you state your point of view on the topic directly and often in one sentence. This sentence is the thesis statement, and it serves as a summary of the argument you’ll make in the rest of your paper.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement:

• tells the reader how you will interpret the significance of the subject matter under discussion.
• is a road map for the paper; in other words, it tells the reader what to expect from the rest of the paper.
• directly answers the question asked of you. A thesis is an interpretation of a question or subject, not the subject itself. The subject, or topic, of an essay might be World War II or Moby Dick; a thesis must then offer a way to understand the war or the novel.
• makes a claim that others might dispute.
• is usually a single sentence near the beginning of your paper (most often, at the end of the first paragraph) that presents your argument to the reader. The rest of the paper, the body of the essay, gathers and organizes evidence that will persuade the reader of the logic of your interpretation.

If your assignment asks you to take a position or develop a claim about a subject, you may need to convey that position or claim in a thesis statement near the beginning of your draft. The assignment may not explicitly state that you need a thesis statement because your instructor may assume you will include one. When in doubt, ask your instructor if the assignment requires a thesis statement. When an assignment asks you to analyze, to interpret, to compare and contrast, to demonstrate cause and effect, or to take a stand on an issue, it is likely that you are being asked to develop a thesis and to support it persuasively. (Check out our handout on understanding assignments for more information.)

How do I create a thesis?

A thesis is the result of a lengthy thinking process. Formulating a thesis is not the first thing you do after reading an essay assignment. Before you develop an argument on any topic, you have to collect and organize evidence, look for possible relationships between known facts (such as surprising contrasts or similarities), and think about the significance of these relationships. Once you do this thinking, you will probably have a “working thesis” that presents a basic or main idea and an argument that you think you can support with evidence. Both the argument and your thesis are likely to need adjustment along the way.

Writers use all kinds of techniques to stimulate their thinking and to help them clarify relationships or comprehend the broader significance of a topic and arrive at a thesis statement. For more ideas on how to get started, see our handout on brainstorming .

How do I know if my thesis is strong?

If there’s time, run it by your instructor or make an appointment at the Writing Center to get some feedback. Even if you do not have time to get advice elsewhere, you can do some thesis evaluation of your own. When reviewing your first draft and its working thesis, ask yourself the following :

• Do I answer the question? Re-reading the question prompt after constructing a working thesis can help you fix an argument that misses the focus of the question. If the prompt isn’t phrased as a question, try to rephrase it. For example, “Discuss the effect of X on Y” can be rephrased as “What is the effect of X on Y?”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? If your thesis simply states facts that no one would, or even could, disagree with, it’s possible that you are simply providing a summary, rather than making an argument.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? Thesis statements that are too vague often do not have a strong argument. If your thesis contains words like “good” or “successful,” see if you could be more specific: why is something “good”; what specifically makes something “successful”?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? If a reader’s first response is likely to  be “So what?” then you need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue.
• Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering? If your thesis and the body of your essay do not seem to go together, one of them has to change. It’s okay to change your working thesis to reflect things you have figured out in the course of writing your paper. Remember, always reassess and revise your writing as necessary.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? If a reader’s first response is “how?” or “why?” your thesis may be too open-ended and lack guidance for the reader. See what you can add to give the reader a better take on your position right from the beginning.

Suppose you are taking a course on contemporary communication, and the instructor hands out the following essay assignment: “Discuss the impact of social media on public awareness.” Looking back at your notes, you might start with this working thesis:

Social media impacts public awareness in both positive and negative ways.

You can use the questions above to help you revise this general statement into a stronger thesis.

• Do I answer the question? You can analyze this if you rephrase “discuss the impact” as “what is the impact?” This way, you can see that you’ve answered the question only very generally with the vague “positive and negative ways.”
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not likely. Only people who maintain that social media has a solely positive or solely negative impact could disagree.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? No. What are the positive effects? What are the negative effects?
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? No. Why are they positive? How are they positive? What are their causes? Why are they negative? How are they negative? What are their causes?
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? No. Why should anyone care about the positive and/or negative impact of social media?

After thinking about your answers to these questions, you decide to focus on the one impact you feel strongly about and have strong evidence for:

Because not every voice on social media is reliable, people have become much more critical consumers of information, and thus, more informed voters.

This version is a much stronger thesis! It answers the question, takes a specific position that others can challenge, and it gives a sense of why it matters.

Let’s try another. Suppose your literature professor hands out the following assignment in a class on the American novel: Write an analysis of some aspect of Mark Twain’s novel Huckleberry Finn. “This will be easy,” you think. “I loved Huckleberry Finn!” You grab a pad of paper and write:

Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn is a great American novel.

You begin to analyze your thesis:

• Do I answer the question? No. The prompt asks you to analyze some aspect of the novel. Your working thesis is a statement of general appreciation for the entire novel.

Think about aspects of the novel that are important to its structure or meaning—for example, the role of storytelling, the contrasting scenes between the shore and the river, or the relationships between adults and children. Now you write:

In Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain develops a contrast between life on the river and life on the shore.

• Do I answer the question? Yes!
• Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose? Not really. This contrast is well-known and accepted.
• Is my thesis statement specific enough? It’s getting there–you have highlighted an important aspect of the novel for investigation. However, it’s still not clear what your analysis will reveal.
• Does my thesis pass the “how and why?” test? Not yet. Compare scenes from the book and see what you discover. Free write, make lists, jot down Huck’s actions and reactions and anything else that seems interesting.
• Does my thesis pass the “So what?” test? What’s the point of this contrast? What does it signify?”

After examining the evidence and considering your own insights, you write:

Through its contrasting river and shore scenes, Twain’s Huckleberry Finn suggests that to find the true expression of American democratic ideals, one must leave “civilized” society and go back to nature.

This final thesis statement presents an interpretation of a literary work based on an analysis of its content. Of course, for the essay itself to be successful, you must now present evidence from the novel that will convince the reader of your interpretation.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Anson, Chris M., and Robert A. Schwegler. 2010. The Longman Handbook for Writers and Readers , 6th ed. New York: Longman.

Lunsford, Andrea A. 2015. The St. Martin’s Handbook , 8th ed. Boston: Bedford/St Martin’s.

Ramage, John D., John C. Bean, and June Johnson. 2018. The Allyn & Bacon Guide to Writing , 8th ed. New York: Pearson.

Ruszkiewicz, John J., Christy Friend, Daniel Seward, and Maxine Hairston. 2010. The Scott, Foresman Handbook for Writers , 9th ed. Boston: Pearson Education.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Self Reflection — A Self-reflection of My Life Challenges, Motivation, and Persistence to Achieve My Goals

Challenges in My Life: a Reflection

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Published: Mar 1, 2019

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Introduction, reflective essay about challenges in life, works cited:.

• Dadiz, R., & Baldwin, S. (2016). Intrinsic motivation and the five-paragraph essay: Lessons learned on practitioner research, the role of academic research in the classroom, and assessing changes in student motivation. Journal of Educational Research and Practice, 6(2), 189-199.
• Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-Determination Theory: Basic Psychological Needs in Motivation, Development, and Wellness. Guilford Publications.
• Scobbie, L., Wyke, S., Dixon, D., & Straub, C. (2015). Identifying and applying psychological theory to setting and achieving rehabilitation goals. Clinical Rehabilitation, 29(7), 665-673.
• Vallerand, R. J., & Ratelle, C. F. (2002). Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation: A hierarchical model. Handbook of self-determination research, 37-63.
• Weiner, B. (2018). Attribution theory. Springer.
• Wentzel, K. R., & Wigfield, A. (2018). Handbook of motivation at school. Routledge.

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Good Thesis Statement

Ai generator.

Crafting a compelling thesis statement is pivotal in guiding your audience through the heart of your argument. Whether you’re a budding writer or an academic veteran, diving into exemplary thesis statements can refine your understanding and elevate your writing prowess. This guide showcases sterling examples, offers step-by-step writing insights, and provides invaluable tips, ensuring that your thesis statement stands tall with clarity, precision, and confidence.

What is an Example of Good Thesis Statement?

A good thesis statement clearly conveys the main argument or point of a paper and gives direction to the content that follows. Here’s an example of a good thesis statement:

“In William Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’, the ambition of the main character acts as a double-edged sword, driving him to achieve power at any cost, yet simultaneously leading to his tragic downfall.”

This statement provides a clear position on the role of ambition in the play, setting the stage for a detailed analysis of Macbeth’s character and the play’s themes.

100 Good Thesis Statement Examples

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A thesis statement is the cornerstone of academic writing. It encapsulates the main argument or point of a paper in a concise manner. A well-crafted thesis provides direction for the content and signals to the reader what to expect. Here are 100 examples of good thesis statements to inspire your own academic endeavors.

• “The advancement of internet technology has revolutionized modern communication, leading to numerous societal changes, including a more interconnected world and the rise of telecommuting.”
• “Climate change poses a severe threat to global ecosystems, necessitating immediate and substantive action to mitigate its destructive impacts.”
• “The portrayal of women in classic literature often reflects societal norms of their time, offering insights into gender roles and societal expectations.”
• “While many view animal testing as a necessary evil, alternative methods can and should be developed to reduce the reliance on animal cruelty.”
• “The impact of the Industrial Revolution extended beyond economics, reshaping societal structures, living conditions, and even art.”
• “The rise of fast food has played a significant role in the obesity epidemic facing many developed nations.”
• “The ‘American Dream’ in Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gatsby’ underscores the illusion of prosperity and the decay of moral values in the Roaring Twenties.”
• “Children exposed to violent video games are more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior, underscoring the need for parental guidance.”
• “The effects of social media on mental health, particularly among adolescents, is a growing concern that warrants in-depth research and awareness campaigns.”
• “The colonization of Africa had long-lasting effects, including cultural assimilation, resource exploitation, and the reshaping of geopolitical boundaries.”
• “Digital currencies, like Bitcoin, present both significant potential for reshaping global finance and inherent risks related to regulation and stability.”
• “The Renaissance period, while renowned for its artistic achievements, also laid the groundwork for scientific discoveries and the spirit of inquiry.”
• “Adopting a plant-based diet not only promotes personal health but also significantly reduces one’s carbon footprint.”
• “In George Orwell’s ‘1984’, the omnipresent surveillance state serves as a chilling commentary on government overreach and the dangers of unchecked power.”
• “Education reform is essential in addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring every student has access to quality learning.”
• “The use of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, is imperative in combating the detrimental effects of fossil fuels.”
• “The character of Hamlet explores the complex interplay between madness and sanity, revealing deep insights into human nature.”
• “Urbanization, while driving economic growth, also presents challenges like increased pollution and strains on public infrastructure.”
• “Migration patterns in the 21st century are heavily influenced by geopolitical unrest, economic disparities, and climate change.”
• “Childhood vaccinations are crucial in preventing deadly diseases and ensuring the overall health of a community.
• “Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is not merely a moral obligation but a strategic move that can provide companies with a competitive edge in the modern business environment.”
• “Despite the advent of e-books and digital reading platforms, physical books remain significant due to their tangible nature and the immersive reading experience they offer.”
• “The prohibition era in the U.S. illustrates the unintended consequences of policies that don’t consider societal behaviors and demands.”
• “Despite its controversial nature, stem cell research holds the key to potential cures for terminal diseases and understanding cellular growth.”
• “Modern education needs to incorporate more emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving rather than rote memorization.”
• “The cultural and societal implications of artificial intelligence will be as impactful, if not more, than its technological advancements.”
• “Language evolves over time, reflecting societal changes, migrations, and cultural mergers, and it’s essential to study these shifts to understand societies better.”
• “Marketing in the age of social media requires a shift from traditional strategies to a more interactive and customer-centric approach.”
• “Elderly populations in developed countries are on the rise, necessitating a comprehensive approach to geriatric care and social support systems.”
• “While globalization has led to more interconnected economies and cultures, it has also resulted in significant cultural homogenization and loss of local identities.”
• “Mental health, once a taboo subject, requires increased awareness and resources, given its impact on overall health, productivity, and societal well-being.”
• “Space exploration, beyond its scientific implications, has profound effects on how humans perceive themselves in the universe.”
• “The concept of heroism in literature has evolved, reflecting societies’ changing values, moral codes, and perceptions of heroics.”
• “Dietary habits are deeply interwoven with culture, traditions, and in many cases, religious beliefs, making them more than mere choices of food.”
• “While urbanization offers numerous opportunities, it also exacerbates challenges like housing shortages, traffic congestion, and environmental pollution.”
• “The global financial crisis of 2008 underscores the need for transparency, regulation, and ethical considerations in banking and investment sectors.”
• “Art movements, from Renaissance to Surrealism, reflect more than aesthetic preferences: they mirror political, social, and cultural evolutions of their times.”
• “The rise of gig economies challenges traditional employment models, necessitating new legal and social frameworks.”
• “Music’s evolution over the decades is not just a progression of genres but a reflection of societal changes, technological advancements, and cultural shifts.”
• “The ethics of gene editing, especially CRISPR technology, needs comprehensive debate, considering its profound implications on human evolution and identity.
• “The emergence of telemedicine, accelerated by the global pandemic, offers a new horizon for healthcare but also prompts significant considerations regarding access, quality, and patient privacy.”
• “Climate change’s implications stretch beyond environmental degradation, influencing migration patterns, geopolitical tensions, and global economic shifts.”
• “The Renaissance’s influence isn’t restricted to art and literature but extends to scientific thinking, societal norms, and the evolution of political thought.”
• “Consumerism’s rise in modern societies doesn’t only influence economies but also molds individual identities, values, and life purposes.”
• “With rising automation, the definition of work is undergoing a transformation, calling for adaptive educational systems and new social structures.”
• “Historically, pandemics have reshaped societies, and COVID-19’s impacts will be seen in domains ranging from international relations to local community structures.”
• “The portrayal of women in media, while slowly changing, has long-term effects on societal gender norms and individual self-perceptions.”
• “The growing popularity of plant-based diets isn’t merely a health trend but a reflection of increasing environmental awareness and ethical considerations.”
• “While nuclear energy presents a solution to fossil fuel dependency, it also poses profound ethical, environmental, and geopolitical challenges.”
• “The transformation of the family unit in contemporary societies reveals broader trends concerning mobility, gender roles, and individualism.”
• “As cryptocurrencies gain traction, they challenge traditional economic systems, question the role of centralized banks, and redefine value.”
• “Migration patterns throughout history don’t merely reflect economic pursuits but are intertwined with cultural exchanges, conflict resolutions, and the global shaping of identities.”
• “The minimalist movement goes beyond aesthetic choices, reflecting a broader societal fatigue with consumerism and a quest for genuine experiences.”
• “The evolution of fashion isn’t just about changing styles but mirrors societal attitudes, economic conditions, and even political movements.”
• “Increased screen time among younger generations necessitates a reevaluation of learning models, social interactions, and the definition of community.”
• “Colonization’s legacies are still evident today, influencing global politics, cultural interactions, and even individual identities.”
• “The pursuit of happiness in modern societies is increasingly tied to material acquisitions, calling for a reevaluation of values and measures of well-being.”
• “Water scarcity, an impending global challenge, will dictate geopolitical strategies, economic models, and demand innovative technological solutions.”
• “Digital privacy concerns in the age of big data don’t just relate to personal safety but challenge fundamental rights and the very nature of democracy.”
• “Urban green spaces, beyond their environmental benefits, play crucial roles in mental well-being, community building, and fostering biodiversity.
• “While space exploration heralds new frontiers for humanity, it brings forth ethical, financial, and existential questions that must be addressed.”
• “The dynamics of global politics are increasingly being shaped by technology, redefining national security, diplomacy, and global citizenry.”
• “The role of folklore in preserving cultural identities is critical in this era of globalization, aiding in understanding shared human experiences.”
• “Declining bee populations are not only an environmental concern but an impending economic crisis due to their crucial role in pollination.”
• “The gig economy, while offering flexibility, poses challenges related to job security, benefits, and the very definition of employment.”
• “Holistic education goes beyond academics, addressing students’ emotional, social, and physical needs, preparing them for the complexities of modern life.”
• “Urbanization, while indicative of progress, also brings forth challenges related to sustainability, social disparities, and cultural preservation.”
• “The resurgence of vinyl in a digital age signifies a longing for tangibility and the intrinsic value of experiences.”
• “Cultural festivals, beyond their entertainment value, serve as bridges for intercultural understanding, fostering peace and global camaraderie.”
• “The debate over artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence delves into philosophy, ethics, and the potential redefinition of life itself.”
• “Genetic editing, while promising medical breakthroughs, also opens Pandora’s box of ethical considerations related to identity, evolution, and societal norms.”
• “The blending of traditional and western medicine presents opportunities for holistic health solutions, yet raises concerns about authenticity and misuse.”
• “Mental health awareness in contemporary societies is not just a health concern but an economic, social, and cultural imperative.”
• “Craftsmanship in the age of mass production celebrates human ingenuity, authenticity, and a counter-narrative to rampant consumerism.”
• “Language extinction is not merely a linguistic loss but erodes cultural diversity, shared histories, and human perspectives.”
• “The rise of e-sports challenges traditional definitions of sports, athleticism, and physicality, reflecting shifts in entertainment and cultural values.”
• “The ocean’s depths, less explored than outer space, harbor potential solutions to medical, technological, and environmental challenges.”
• “Plant consciousness, while scientifically controversial, encourages a reevaluation of life, inter-species relationships, and our role in the ecosystem.”
• “The philosophy of minimalism, in contrast to modern excess, suggests a life of purpose, clarity, and sustainable choices.”
• “Architectural trends, like the tiny house movement, reflect evolving societal values concerning sustainability, materialism, and the concept of home.
• “The growing popularity of farm-to-table dining isn’t just a culinary trend, but a statement on sustainability, locality, and the personal connection to food sources.”
• “The proliferation of digital detox retreats illustrates society’s increasing acknowledgment of technology’s impact on mental well-being and the yearning for authentic human interactions.”
• “Rise of homeschooling, propelled by customizable learning experiences, showcases an evolution in educational philosophies and parental roles in a child’s academic journey.”
• “The interest in ancestral DNA testing unveils an intrinsic human desire to understand one’s origins, identity, and the interconnectedness of cultures.”
• “Virtual reality, while a technological marvel, forces us to confront and redefine our understanding of experiences, relationships, and reality itself.”
• “Solar energy’s ascension isn’t merely about environmental conservation; it’s a testament to human adaptability and the pivot towards sustainable choices.”
• “Revival of handwritten letters in the digital age signifies a desire for personal connection, authenticity, and the tangible amidst the ephemeral.”
• “Shifts in fashion towards gender-neutral clothing reflect broader societal conversations around gender identities, fluidity, and the deconstruction of stereotypes.”
• “The embrace of urban farming in metropolises worldwide underscores the importance of sustainability, self-sufficiency, and reconnection with nature even within urban landscapes.”
• “The growing trend of unplugged weddings emphasizes the importance of being present, cherishing moments, and prioritizing personal connections over digital documentation.”
• “The movement towards ethical consumerism isn’t just a shopping trend; it’s a societal shift towards responsibility, awareness, and the power of collective impact.”
• “The resurgence of board games in an era dominated by video games underscores the human need for direct interaction, strategy, and tactile experiences.”
• “Sustainable tourism is not merely an industry response; it’s a commitment to preserving culture, environment, and ensuring mutual respect between travelers and local communities.”
• “Intergenerational living, or multiple generations under one roof, challenges the conventional Western living standards and underscores the importance of family, shared responsibilities, and cultural preservation.”
• “The adoption of adult coloring books highlights the universal need for creative outlets, mindfulness, and the therapeutic value of art.”
• “The zero-waste movement is more than an environmental initiative; it’s a global call to action, emphasizing individual responsibility and systemic change.”
• “The increasing importance given to soft skills in professional settings speaks to the evolving understanding of holistic employee value, team dynamics, and long-term organizational success.”
• “The preference for experiences over possessions among younger generations challenges materialistic values and emphasizes the impermanence and value of memories.”
• “The rise of artisanal and handcrafted goods counters the age of mass production and highlights the appreciation for uniqueness, tradition, and human touch.”
• “The embrace of slow living in fast-paced societies underscores the yearning for mindfulness, purpose, and the significance of life’s simple pleasures.

Good Thesis Statement Starter Examples

Beginning a thesis statement requires a concise premise that draws the reader’s attention. Here are examples that illustrate how to commence your thesis effectively:

• “First and foremost, urban development…”
• “At the core of this argument, environmental conservation…”
• “Central to this discussion, global economic trends…”
• “Fundamentally, artistic expression…”
• “The primary consideration, ethical consumption…”
• “An essential perspective, child development…”
• “At the heart of the matter, digital communication…”
• “Rooted in historical context, the Renaissance era…”
• “Pivotal to this debate, the role of artificial intelligence…”
• “Integral to this analysis, cultural integration…”

Good Thesis Statement Examples for Research Paper

A thesis statement for research paper demands a clear, specific, and thought-provoking thesis. Here are suitable examples:

• “Recent studies on climate change demonstrate the dire need for renewable energy transition.”
• “Neurological research reveals that bilingualism significantly impacts cognitive ability.”
• “Archaeological evidence from the Mediterranean supports the existence of matriarchal societies in ancient times.”
• “Data-driven marketing strategies have revolutionized e-commerce and consumer behavior.”
• “A review of mental health studies shows a strong correlation between social media usage and anxiety among teenagers.”
• “Genetic research indicates certain mutations as predictive markers for specific cancers.”
• “Recent advancements in AI are tracing the line between human intelligence and machine learning.”
• “Microplastics in marine ecosystems have a detrimental effect, as indicated by recent oceanographic research.”
• “Quantitative analysis of global trade indicates a shift towards service-oriented economies.”
• “Cultural anthropology studies reveal the importance of oral narratives in indigenous societies.”

Good Thesis Statement Examples for Essays

Crafting a thesis for essays involves capturing the essence of your narrative or argument. Here are examples:

• “Modern parenting challenges differ significantly from those of a generation ago, especially with the rise of technology.”
• “Nostalgia, while a comforting emotion, can sometimes prevent progress and keep us anchored to the past.”
• “The introduction of digital reading is redefining the experience of literature.”
• “Despite its challenges, traveling solo can be an enlightening and transformative experience.”
• “Embracing minimalism can lead to a more fulfilling and less cluttered life.”
• “The transition from childhood to adulthood is marked by significant emotional, social, and psychological changes.”
• “A vegan lifestyle, beyond dietary preferences, represents a choice for health and ethical practices.”
• “Cultural festivals, more than celebrations, are reflections of identity, heritage, and community bonding.”
• “Design, in its essence, isn’t just about aesthetics, but about function, purpose, and intuition.”
• “Music transcends languages, bridging gaps, and resonating emotions universally.”

Good Thesis Statement Examples for Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay’s thesis statement should clearly state your position. Here are solid stances:

• “Compulsory voting ensures a democratic process that truly reflects a nation’s collective decision.”
• “While technology has its advantages, it cannot replace the value of traditional classroom learning.”
• “Animal testing is not only ethically problematic but also scientifically limited and should be replaced with alternative methods.”
• “Legalizing marijuana can provide significant economic benefits and reduce crime rates.”
• “Censorship, under the guise of protection, can often stifle creativity and freedom of expression.”
• “Childhood vaccinations should be mandatory, given their crucial role in preventing outbreaks and ensuring public health.”
• “Fast fashion is not only environmentally harmful but also promotes unethical labor practices.”
• “Privacy in the digital age is not a luxury but a fundamental human right that needs stringent protection.”
• “While sports promote discipline and teamwork, an undue emphasis on winning can deter the essence of play.”
• “Capital punishment, despite its deterrent effect, raises ethical dilemmas and should be reconsidered.”

Good Thesis Statement Examples for Compare and Contrast Essay

Compare and contrast essays require a clear delineation between two subjects. Here are examples that set the stage:

• “While both classical and modern music have their merits, they cater to different emotional palettes and generational contexts.”
• “Ancient Greek and Ancient Egyptian civilizations, though contemporaries, had distinctly different cultural and architectural achievements.”
• “Freelancing and traditional employment both have their pros and cons concerning flexibility, job security, and career growth.”
• “While both Apple and Microsoft have impacted computing, their philosophies, aesthetics, and user experiences differ markedly.”
• “Renting and buying a home, each have their financial implications, but also offer varying degrees of freedom and permanence.”
• “Both introversion and extraversion have unique strengths and challenges, influencing how individuals navigate social contexts.”
• “American football and soccer, while both team sports, have different rules, global reach, and cultural significance.”
• “While cats are known for their independence, dogs are often appreciated for their loyalty and companionship.”
• “Novels and short stories, though both literary forms, cater to different attention spans and narrative depths.”
• “Traditional marketing and digital marketing, while aiming for the same goal, employ different mediums and strategies.

Good Thesis Statement Examples About Success

Success is multifaceted and personal. These thesis statements delve into various perceptions and interpretations of success:

• “Success isn’t merely measured by financial wealth but by personal growth and fulfillment.”
• “True success lies in one’s ability to maintain balance in personal and professional life.”
• “For many, success is the realization of personal freedom and the ability to dictate one’s own pace of life.”
• “Modern society often equates success with material possession, overlooking emotional and spiritual well-being.”
• “The journey, with its challenges and lessons, is as significant as the end-point in defining success.”
• “Success in academics doesn’t always translate to success in real-life scenarios and vice versa.”
• “The parameters of success differ across cultures, reflecting diverse values and priorities.”
• “Individuals who overcome adversity often have a richer understanding of success.”
• “Long-term contentment and understanding of self are underappreciated markers of success.”
• “Success isn’t static; its definition evolves with personal experiences and milestones.”

Good Thesis Statement Examples for College

College life brings about a plethora of experiences and learnings. These college essay thesis statements shed light on the myriad facets of collegiate life:

• “College isn’t merely an academic pursuit but a journey of self-discovery and growth.”
• “The college experience is as much about developing soft skills as it is about academic excellence.”
• “While college provides a structured learning environment, self-motivation remains a critical determinant of success.”
• “Extracurricular activities in college play a pivotal role in shaping an individual’s character and perspective.”
• “The diversity in a college setting fosters cultural appreciation and global-mindedness.”
• “College debts, while burdensome, are investments in one’s future potential and aspirations.”
• “Digital advancements have revolutionized the traditional college experience, making education more accessible.”
• “The challenges faced during college years equip individuals with resilience and adaptability for future endeavors.”
• “Networking in college can pave the way for professional opportunities and lasting friendships.”
• “Critical thinking, a skill honed in college, is indispensable in navigating real-world complexities.”

Good Thesis Statement Examples for Students

Student life is characterized by its challenges, learnings, and milestones. These thesis statements reflect diverse aspects of student experiences:

• “Balancing academics with extracurriculars equips students with multitasking abilities and time management skills.”
• “For students, failure can be a profound learning experience, shaping resilience and adaptability.”
• “Modern students grapple with the pressures of digital distractions and the advantages of technology-enhanced learning.”
• “International exchange programs provide students with a broader perspective and cultural appreciation.”
• “Students today are more attuned to global issues, thanks to digital interconnectedness.”
• “Peer pressure, while often viewed negatively, can also motivate students to excel and set higher benchmarks.”
• “Real-life education, often neglected in curriculum, is crucial in preparing students for adulthood challenges.”
• “Active participation in student governance instills leadership qualities and a sense of responsibility.”
• “Practical internships and workshops complement theoretical knowledge, giving students an edge in professional realms.”
• “Mental health and well-being are as vital as academic achievements for holistic student development.”

Good Thesis Statement Examples About a Person

Thesis statements about individuals shed light on their characteristics, achievements, or significance. Here are some crafted examples:

• “Nelson Mandela’s resilience against apartheid showcases the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.”
• “Steve Jobs, beyond his technological innovations, exemplified the essence of visionary leadership and creative thinking.”
• “Mother Teresa’s life underscores the profound impact of compassion and selflessness in addressing societal challenges.”
• “Frida Kahlo, through her art, gave voice to pain, love, and the complexities of identity.”
• “Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of non-violence resonates globally, advocating peace over conflict.”
• “Oprah Winfrey’s journey from adversity to global influence underscores the possibilities of determination and a positive mindset.”
• “Leonardo da Vinci, a polymath, exemplifies the limitless potential of human curiosity and innovation.”
• “Malala Yousafzai’s advocacy for girls’ education sheds light on the transformative power of youth activism.”
• “Elon Musk’s ventures span various industries, reflecting an insatiable quest for innovation and progress.”
• “Jane Austen, through her novels, offered incisive commentary on society, love, and individuality.”

Good Thesis Statement Examples About Family

Family forms the foundational fabric of our lives. These thesis statements reflect on its multifaceted nature:

• “The modern family structure has evolved, reflecting societal changes and diverse cultural norms.”
• “Families, beyond biological ties, are bound by shared experiences, values, and unconditional support.”
• “Blended families, with their unique challenges, underscore the universality of love and understanding.”
• “The role of grandparents in families extends beyond tradition, offering wisdom and timeless bonds.”
• “In the digital age, maintaining familial connections requires conscious efforts amidst technological distractions.”
• “The dynamics of sibling relationships play a pivotal role in shaping individual personalities and perspectives.”
• “Families act as safe havens, providing emotional anchorage in an unpredictable world.”
• “The challenges of modern parenting lie in balancing tradition with contemporary realities.”
• “Familial roles are fluid, constantly adapting to changing life stages and circumstances.”
• “Family traditions, while reflective of heritage, also evolve, mirroring changing times and values.”

Good Thesis Statement Examples About Life

Life, with its myriad experiences, offers endless perspectives. These thesis statements delve into its vast expanse:

• “Life’s unpredictability demands resilience, adaptability, and an undying spirit of exploration.”
• “Digital advancements, while enhancing life’s quality, also present challenges to genuine human connections.”
• “The pursuit of happiness in life is a journey of self-discovery, introspection, and meaningful connections.”
• “Life’s challenges, often viewed as setbacks, are pivotal in shaping character and destiny.”
• “The essence of life lies in cherishing fleeting moments, recognizing their transient nature.”
• “Balancing personal aspirations with societal expectations is a recurring challenge in modern life.”
• “Mindfulness practices, in the hustle of life, offer solace and a deeper connection to the present.”
• “Life, in its essence, is a continuous learning experience, offering lessons in unexpected places.”
• “The concept of success in life is personal, reflecting individual goals, values, and benchmarks.”
• “Life’s beauty lies in its diversity, presenting myriad experiences, emotions, and milestones.

What 3 things should be in a good thesis?

A well-crafted thesis statement serves as the backbone of your paper, providing clarity and direction. For a thesis to be effective, it should possess the following three characteristics:

• Clear Focus: The thesis should pinpoint a specific idea or argument rather than being overly broad or vague. It should give the reader a clear understanding of what the paper will discuss.
• Arguable Point: A good thesis often presents an argument that could be challenged. It shouldn’t state a fact but rather a claim that others might dispute.
• Supporting Evidence or Reasoning: While the thesis statement doesn’t need to list all the supporting points, it should hint at or introduce the line of reasoning you’ll use to back up your claim.

How do you write a catchy thesis statement? – Step by Step Guide

• Understand the Assignment: Before crafting your thesis, make sure you comprehend the requirements of the assignment. Is it analytical, argumentative, expository, etc.?
• Research the Topic: A thorough understanding of your subject matter will help you formulate a robust and intriguing thesis. Dive deep into the available literature.
• Identify a Specific Focus: Narrow down your topic to a specific area of interest or argument.
• Draft a Preliminary Statement: Begin with a broad thesis statement, which you can refine as you progress.
• Make it Debatable: Ensure your thesis makes a claim or presents a viewpoint that others could challenge.
• Keep it Concise: While your thesis should be detailed enough to convey your argument, it should also be succinct and free from unnecessary jargon.
• Revise and Refine: As you continue your research and start writing, revisit your thesis. Make sure it remains relevant and adjust as necessary for clarity and precision.
• Seek Feedback: Discuss your thesis with peers, instructors, or mentors to get their insights.
• Finalize with Confidence: Once you’ve honed your thesis to its best form, confidently place it at the beginning of your paper, usually at the end of the introduction.

Tips for Writing a Good Thesis Statement

• Position it Right: Typically, the thesis statement should be at the end of your introduction, setting the tone for the rest of the paper.
• Avoid Ambiguity: Be clear and precise. Vague thesis statements can confuse readers.
• Stay Away from Clichés: While some generic statements can apply to many topics, they often lack depth and originality.
• Use Strong Language: Avoid wishy-washy phrases like “I think” or “I believe.” Be assertive in presenting your argument.
• Stay Relevant: As you progress in your writing, ensure every part of your paper supports or relates back to your thesis.
• Avoid Superlatives: Words like “best,” “most,” “all,” etc., can make your thesis weaker. Stick to more nuanced language.
• Revisit Regularly: As your paper evolves, make sure your thesis remains applicable. Adjust if necessary to reflect your paper’s direction.
• Limit to One or Two Sentences: While this isn’t a strict rule, a concise thesis often makes a stronger point.
• Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice writing thesis statements, the better you’ll get at crafting compelling and effective ones.
• Stay Passionate: If you’re genuinely interested in your thesis, it’ll reflect in your writing, making your entire paper more engaging.

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Developing Strong Thesis Statements

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The thesis statement or main claim must be debatable

An argumentative or persuasive piece of writing must begin with a debatable thesis or claim. In other words, the thesis must be something that people could reasonably have differing opinions on. If your thesis is something that is generally agreed upon or accepted as fact then there is no reason to try to persuade people.

Example of a non-debatable thesis statement:

This thesis statement is not debatable. First, the word pollution implies that something is bad or negative in some way. Furthermore, all studies agree that pollution is a problem; they simply disagree on the impact it will have or the scope of the problem. No one could reasonably argue that pollution is unambiguously good.

Example of a debatable thesis statement:

This is an example of a debatable thesis because reasonable people could disagree with it. Some people might think that this is how we should spend the nation's money. Others might feel that we should be spending more money on education. Still others could argue that corporations, not the government, should be paying to limit pollution.

Another example of a debatable thesis statement:

In this example there is also room for disagreement between rational individuals. Some citizens might think focusing on recycling programs rather than private automobiles is the most effective strategy.

The thesis needs to be narrow

Although the scope of your paper might seem overwhelming at the start, generally the narrower the thesis the more effective your argument will be. Your thesis or claim must be supported by evidence. The broader your claim is, the more evidence you will need to convince readers that your position is right.

Example of a thesis that is too broad:

There are several reasons this statement is too broad to argue. First, what is included in the category "drugs"? Is the author talking about illegal drug use, recreational drug use (which might include alcohol and cigarettes), or all uses of medication in general? Second, in what ways are drugs detrimental? Is drug use causing deaths (and is the author equating deaths from overdoses and deaths from drug related violence)? Is drug use changing the moral climate or causing the economy to decline? Finally, what does the author mean by "society"? Is the author referring only to America or to the global population? Does the author make any distinction between the effects on children and adults? There are just too many questions that the claim leaves open. The author could not cover all of the topics listed above, yet the generality of the claim leaves all of these possibilities open to debate.

Example of a narrow or focused thesis:

In this example the topic of drugs has been narrowed down to illegal drugs and the detriment has been narrowed down to gang violence. This is a much more manageable topic.

We could narrow each debatable thesis from the previous examples in the following way:

Narrowed debatable thesis 1:

This thesis narrows the scope of the argument by specifying not just the amount of money used but also how the money could actually help to control pollution.

Narrowed debatable thesis 2:

This thesis narrows the scope of the argument by specifying not just what the focus of a national anti-pollution campaign should be but also why this is the appropriate focus.

Qualifiers such as " typically ," " generally ," " usually ," or " on average " also help to limit the scope of your claim by allowing for the almost inevitable exception to the rule.

Types of claims

Claims typically fall into one of four categories. Thinking about how you want to approach your topic, or, in other words, what type of claim you want to make, is one way to focus your thesis on one particular aspect of your broader topic.

Claims of fact or definition: These claims argue about what the definition of something is or whether something is a settled fact. Example:

Claims of cause and effect: These claims argue that one person, thing, or event caused another thing or event to occur. Example:

Claims about value: These are claims made of what something is worth, whether we value it or not, how we would rate or categorize something. Example:

Claims about solutions or policies: These are claims that argue for or against a certain solution or policy approach to a problem. Example:

Which type of claim is right for your argument? Which type of thesis or claim you use for your argument will depend on your position and knowledge of the topic, your audience, and the context of your paper. You might want to think about where you imagine your audience to be on this topic and pinpoint where you think the biggest difference in viewpoints might be. Even if you start with one type of claim you probably will be using several within the paper. Regardless of the type of claim you choose to utilize it is key to identify the controversy or debate you are addressing and to define your position early on in the paper.

Developing a Thesis Statement

Many papers you write require developing a thesis statement. In this section you’ll learn what a thesis statement is and how to write one.

Keep in mind that not all papers require thesis statements . If in doubt, please consult your instructor for assistance.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement . . .

• Makes an argumentative assertion about a topic; it states the conclusions that you have reached about your topic.
• Makes a promise to the reader about the scope, purpose, and direction of your paper.
• Is focused and specific enough to be “proven” within the boundaries of your paper.
• Is generally located near the end of the introduction ; sometimes, in a long paper, the thesis will be expressed in several sentences or in an entire paragraph.
• Identifies the relationships between the pieces of evidence that you are using to support your argument.

Not all papers require thesis statements! Ask your instructor if you’re in doubt whether you need one.

Identify a topic

Your topic is the subject about which you will write. Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic; or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper.

Consider what your assignment asks you to do

Inform yourself about your topic, focus on one aspect of your topic, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts, generate a topic from an assignment.

Below are some possible topics based on sample assignments.

Sample assignment 1

Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II.

Identified topic

Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis

This topic avoids generalities such as “Spain” and “World War II,” addressing instead on Franco’s role (a specific aspect of “Spain”) and the diplomatic relations between the Allies and Axis (a specific aspect of World War II).

Sample assignment 2

Analyze one of Homer’s epic similes in the Iliad.

The relationship between the portrayal of warfare and the epic simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64.

This topic focuses on a single simile and relates it to a single aspect of the Iliad ( warfare being a major theme in that work).

Developing a Thesis Statement–Additional information

Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic, or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper. You’ll want to read your assignment carefully, looking for key terms that you can use to focus your topic.

Sample assignment: Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II Key terms: analyze, Spain’s neutrality, World War II

After you’ve identified the key words in your topic, the next step is to read about them in several sources, or generate as much information as possible through an analysis of your topic. Obviously, the more material or knowledge you have, the more possibilities will be available for a strong argument. For the sample assignment above, you’ll want to look at books and articles on World War II in general, and Spain’s neutrality in particular.

As you consider your options, you must decide to focus on one aspect of your topic. This means that you cannot include everything you’ve learned about your topic, nor should you go off in several directions. If you end up covering too many different aspects of a topic, your paper will sprawl and be unconvincing in its argument, and it most likely will not fulfull the assignment requirements.

For the sample assignment above, both Spain’s neutrality and World War II are topics far too broad to explore in a paper. You may instead decide to focus on Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis , which narrows down what aspects of Spain’s neutrality and World War II you want to discuss, as well as establishes a specific link between those two aspects.

Before you go too far, however, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts. Try to avoid topics that already have too much written about them (i.e., “eating disorders and body image among adolescent women”) or that simply are not important (i.e. “why I like ice cream”). These topics may lead to a thesis that is either dry fact or a weird claim that cannot be supported. A good thesis falls somewhere between the two extremes. To arrive at this point, ask yourself what is new, interesting, contestable, or controversial about your topic.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times . Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Derive a main point from topic

Once you have a topic, you will have to decide what the main point of your paper will be. This point, the “controlling idea,” becomes the core of your argument (thesis statement) and it is the unifying idea to which you will relate all your sub-theses. You can then turn this “controlling idea” into a purpose statement about what you intend to do in your paper.

Look for patterns in your evidence

Compose a purpose statement.

Consult the examples below for suggestions on how to look for patterns in your evidence and construct a purpose statement.

• Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis
• Franco turned to the Allies when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from the Axis

Possible conclusion:

Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: Franco’s desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power.

Purpose statement

This paper will analyze Franco’s diplomacy during World War II to see how it contributed to Spain’s neutrality.

• The simile compares Simoisius to a tree, which is a peaceful, natural image.
• The tree in the simile is chopped down to make wheels for a chariot, which is an object used in warfare.

At first, the simile seems to take the reader away from the world of warfare, but we end up back in that world by the end.

This paper will analyze the way the simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64 moves in and out of the world of warfare.

Derive purpose statement from topic

To find out what your “controlling idea” is, you have to examine and evaluate your evidence . As you consider your evidence, you may notice patterns emerging, data repeated in more than one source, or facts that favor one view more than another. These patterns or data may then lead you to some conclusions about your topic and suggest that you can successfully argue for one idea better than another.

For instance, you might find out that Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis, but when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from them, he turned to the Allies. As you read more about Franco’s decisions, you may conclude that Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: his desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power. Based on this conclusion, you can then write a trial thesis statement to help you decide what material belongs in your paper.

Sometimes you won’t be able to find a focus or identify your “spin” or specific argument immediately. Like some writers, you might begin with a purpose statement just to get yourself going. A purpose statement is one or more sentences that announce your topic and indicate the structure of the paper but do not state the conclusions you have drawn . Thus, you might begin with something like this:

• This paper will look at modern language to see if it reflects male dominance or female oppression.
• I plan to analyze anger and derision in offensive language to see if they represent a challenge of society’s authority.

At some point, you can turn a purpose statement into a thesis statement. As you think and write about your topic, you can restrict, clarify, and refine your argument, crafting your thesis statement to reflect your thinking.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Compose a draft thesis statement

If you are writing a paper that will have an argumentative thesis and are having trouble getting started, the techniques in the table below may help you develop a temporary or “working” thesis statement.

Begin with a purpose statement that you will later turn into a thesis statement.

Assignment: Discuss the history of the Reform Party and explain its influence on the 1990 presidential and Congressional election.

Purpose Statement: This paper briefly sketches the history of the grassroots, conservative, Perot-led Reform Party and analyzes how it influenced the economic and social ideologies of the two mainstream parties.

Question-to-Assertion

If your assignment asks a specific question(s), turn the question(s) into an assertion and give reasons why it is true or reasons for your opinion.

Assignment : What do Aylmer and Rappaccini have to be proud of? Why aren’t they satisfied with these things? How does pride, as demonstrated in “The Birthmark” and “Rappaccini’s Daughter,” lead to unexpected problems?

Beginning thesis statement: Alymer and Rappaccinni are proud of their great knowledge; however, they are also very greedy and are driven to use their knowledge to alter some aspect of nature as a test of their ability. Evil results when they try to “play God.”

Write a sentence that summarizes the main idea of the essay you plan to write.

Main idea: The reason some toys succeed in the market is that they appeal to the consumers’ sense of the ridiculous and their basic desire to laugh at themselves.

Make a list of the ideas that you want to include; consider the ideas and try to group them.

• nature = peaceful
• war matériel = violent (competes with 1?)
• need for time and space to mourn the dead
• war is inescapable (competes with 3?)

Use a formula to arrive at a working thesis statement (you will revise this later).

• although most readers of _______ have argued that _______, closer examination shows that _______.
• _______ uses _______ and _____ to prove that ________.
• phenomenon x is a result of the combination of __________, __________, and _________.

What to keep in mind as you draft an initial thesis statement

Beginning statements obtained through the methods illustrated above can serve as a framework for planning or drafting your paper, but remember they’re not yet the specific, argumentative thesis you want for the final version of your paper. In fact, in its first stages, a thesis statement usually is ill-formed or rough and serves only as a planning tool.

As you write, you may discover evidence that does not fit your temporary or “working” thesis. Or you may reach deeper insights about your topic as you do more research, and you will find that your thesis statement has to be more complicated to match the evidence that you want to use.

You must be willing to reject or omit some evidence in order to keep your paper cohesive and your reader focused. Or you may have to revise your thesis to match the evidence and insights that you want to discuss. Read your draft carefully, noting the conclusions you have drawn and the major ideas which support or prove those conclusions. These will be the elements of your final thesis statement.

Sometimes you will not be able to identify these elements in your early drafts, but as you consider how your argument is developing and how your evidence supports your main idea, ask yourself, “ What is the main point that I want to prove/discuss? ” and “ How will I convince the reader that this is true? ” When you can answer these questions, then you can begin to refine the thesis statement.

Refine and polish the thesis statement

To get to your final thesis, you’ll need to refine your draft thesis so that it’s specific and arguable.

• Ask if your draft thesis addresses the assignment
• Question each part of your draft thesis
• Clarify vague phrases and assertions
• Investigate alternatives to your draft thesis

Consult the example below for suggestions on how to refine your draft thesis statement.

Sample Assignment

Choose an activity and define it as a symbol of American culture. Your essay should cause the reader to think critically about the society which produces and enjoys that activity.

• Ask The phenomenon of drive-in facilities is an interesting symbol of american culture, and these facilities demonstrate significant characteristics of our society.This statement does not fulfill the assignment because it does not require the reader to think critically about society.

Drive-ins are an interesting symbol of American culture because they represent Americans’ significant creativity and business ingenuity.

Among the types of drive-in facilities familiar during the twentieth century, drive-in movie theaters best represent American creativity, not merely because they were the forerunner of later drive-ins and drive-throughs, but because of their impact on our culture: they changed our relationship to the automobile, changed the way people experienced movies, and changed movie-going into a family activity.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast-food establishments, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize America’s economic ingenuity, they also have affected our personal standards.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast- food restaurants, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize (1) Americans’ business ingenuity, they also have contributed (2) to an increasing homogenization of our culture, (3) a willingness to depersonalize relationships with others, and (4) a tendency to sacrifice quality for convenience.

This statement is now specific and fulfills all parts of the assignment. This version, like any good thesis, is not self-evident; its points, 1-4, will have to be proven with evidence in the body of the paper. The numbers in this statement indicate the order in which the points will be presented. Depending on the length of the paper, there could be one paragraph for each numbered item or there could be blocks of paragraph for even pages for each one.

Complete the final thesis statement

The bottom line.

As you move through the process of crafting a thesis, you’ll need to remember four things:

• Context matters! Think about your course materials and lectures. Try to relate your thesis to the ideas your instructor is discussing.
• As you go through the process described in this section, always keep your assignment in mind . You will be more successful when your thesis (and paper) responds to the assignment than if it argues a semi-related idea.
• Your thesis statement should be precise, focused, and contestable ; it should predict the sub-theses or blocks of information that you will use to prove your argument.
• Make sure that you keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Change your thesis as your paper evolves, because you do not want your thesis to promise more than your paper actually delivers.

In the beginning, the thesis statement was a tool to help you sharpen your focus, limit material and establish the paper’s purpose. When your paper is finished, however, the thesis statement becomes a tool for your reader. It tells the reader what you have learned about your topic and what evidence led you to your conclusion. It keeps the reader on track–well able to understand and appreciate your argument.

Writing Process and Structure

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Getting Started with Your Paper

Interpreting Writing Assignments from Your Courses

Generating Ideas for

Creating an Argument

Thesis vs. Purpose Statements

Architecture of Arguments

Working with Sources

Quoting and Paraphrasing Sources

Using Literary Quotations

Citing Sources in Your Paper

Drafting Your Paper

Generating Ideas for Your Paper

Introductions

Paragraphing

Developing Strategic Transitions

Conclusions

Revising Your Paper

Peer Reviews

Reverse Outlines

Revising an Argumentative Paper

Revision Strategies for Longer Projects

Finishing Your Paper

Twelve Common Errors: An Editing Checklist

How to Proofread your Paper

Writing Collaboratively

Collaborative and Group Writing

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Life Challenges - Free Essay Examples and Topic Ideas

Life challenges are the obstacles that we face in our everyday lives. They are the roadblocks that prevent us from reaching our goals, and they can come in many different forms. Perhaps it is a difficult relationship or a financial hardship. It could be a health issue or a personal struggle with addiction. Whatever the challenge may be, it can be daunting and overwhelming. However, we can learn from these challenges and use them as a way to grow and gain strength. By overcoming these obstacles, we become more resilient and better equipped to handle future challenges. Ultimately, life challenges shape who we are and who we will become.

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FAQ about Life Challenges

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Student short essay: “Life: full of challenges”

Life, in its infinite wisdom and complexity, is a beautiful paradox. It is a harmonious blend of joy and sorrow, triumph and defeat, comfort and hardship. It is a journey that is not always easy, fraught with problems and challenges that test our mettle and resilience. Yet, it is in facing these challenges with courage and fortitude that we discover the true beauty of life. This beauty, much like a soothing balm, eases our pain during trying times, providing a beacon of hope that guides us through the darkest nights.

The duality of life is evident in the coexistence of happiness and sorrow, victory and defeat, day and night. These are but two sides of the same coin, a testament to the balance that governs our existence. Life is a rich tapestry of moments – moments of joy, pleasure, success, and comfort, interspersed with periods of misery, defeat, failures, and problems. There is no individual, no matter how strong, powerful, wise, or affluent, who has been spared from the trials and tribulations of life.

Life, in all its beauty, is a celebration of existence, a tribute to the miracle of being alive. Yet, it is essential to be prepared to face adversity and challenges. Success is often the offspring of struggle and hardship. A person who has not weathered the storms of life, who has not tasted the bitterness of failure, can never truly appreciate the sweetness of success. Difficulties serve as a crucible, testing our courage , patience, perseverance, and revealing the true character that lies within us.

Adversity and hardship are the forge that tempers our spirit, making us strong and resilient, equipping us to face life’s challenges with equanimity. There is an undeniable truth in the adage that there can be no gain without pain. Success is the fruit of labor, nourished and sustained by the sweat of our brow and the toil of our hands.

Just as visionary architects , who dare to dream the unimaginable and ingeniously utilize every available piece of technology to bring their visions to life, we too must harness our inner strength and creativity to overcome life’s challenges.

Life is not merely a bed of roses; it is a garden where thorns grow alongside the flowers. The thorns are as much a part of life as the roses, and we must accept them with the same grace with which we embrace the beautiful aspects of life. The thorns serve as a reminder that success and happiness can be elusive.

Instead of succumbing to disappointment and despair, we should remember that the pain inflicted by the thorns is fleeting, and the beauty of life will soon eclipse the sting of the thorns.

Those who harbor the illusion that life is a bed of roses are soon disillusioned, falling prey to depression and frustration. The ones who face difficulties with courage, who accept success without letting it inflate their ego, are the ones who experience genuine happiness, contentment, and peace in life.

Those who believe that good times are eternal are prone to crumble under the weight of difficulties. They falter in their efforts and hard work, succumbing to pressure. Consider the example of a student who burns the midnight oil, makes sacrifices, and resists temptations to excel in his endeavors.

Similarly, a successful executive must navigate the highs and lows of life, remembering that life is a blend of success and failure, joy, and sorrow. If he loses hope during challenging times, he will not achieve success and will be replaced by others. Even the mightiest kings and emperors have had their share of troubles.

Life has not been a bed of roses for them. The adage “uneasy lays the head that wears the crown” has been aptly used for people who are successful and wield power and authority.

Life is beauteous just as roses, but it has challenges which are like thorns and have to be faced and overcome by all. Those who accept these challenges and succeed are the ones who know how to live life in its true sense. Thus, enjoy life but also be prepared to bear the pricks of pain.

Bottom Line

In the grand tapestry of life, challenges are not mere obstacles but stepping stones that lead us to the path of growth and enlightenment. They shape our character, strengthen our resolve, and instill in us a sense of resilience . So, let’s embrace these challenges, for they are the threads that add depth and color to the fabric of our existence.

Remember, it’s not the absence of storms that makes a good sailor, but the courage to face them head-on. Life, indeed, is full of challenges, and it’s our response to them that defines our journey.

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Challenges for a Thesis Statement

A Good Thesis Topic

Don't be fooled by the fact that a thesis statement is only one sentence long. Your entire essay is based upon this crucial sentence. The key to a successful thesis statement is to respond directly to the prompt, be specific, and get straight to the point. Often, your initial thesis statement will develop and grow more precise after you have written the essay.

Make it Debatable

A thesis statement is not a fact. It is a statement that requires elaboration and support and can prompt a discussion. If the statement is self-evident, then it is not an effective thesis statement. For example, the following statement is not debatable and is therefore a poor thesis: "Every day people without cars take public transportation." This sentence is a fact; it does not argue anything and is not making a point that can be discussed. A possible thesis statement based on this topic can be "The city should provide more frequent bus and train service for the countless citizens who cannot afford to own a vehicle."

Be Specific

A common challenge for writing a thesis statement is making it sufficiently narrow and specific. The wording in the statement should not be too general; words like "good," "bad," "change" and "affect" can be too subjective or neutral to convey a specific meaning. Also, the content of the statement should not be too broad. Justus Liebig University warns writers to avoid writing thesis statements that are vague, underdeveloped and too broad to be thoroughly covered in a single essay. For example, the scope of the statement "Violence is rising across the globe" is too wide. An overly broad statement that ignores important nuances and details also runs the risk of being untrue and leaving the reader with questions.

Write a Complete Sentence

A thesis statement should never be written in question form; if you find that you are writing a question, then most likely the actual thesis statement is the response to that question. For example, the following is a poor thesis statement: "Why do so many people suffer from obesity?" However, if you respond to this question, you can create an effective and complete thesis statement: "As a result of the rising costs of healthy food and a decrease in physical activity, the rate of obesity is rising in the U.S."

Just Say It

Your thesis statement should get straight to the point. Rather than making an announcement, just make the point. For example, instead of writing "I'm going to write about how curfews are good," write "Curfews are good for teenagers because they provide a stable structure." Also, avoid words and phrases that serve only to set up the statement, such as "in my opinion" and "I believe" -- these are just filler and don't add any meaningful content to the essay.

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• Justus Liebig University Giessen: Examples of Good Thesis Statements
• Indiana University: How To Write a Thesis Statement

Soheila Battaglia is a published and award-winning author and filmmaker. She holds an MA in literary cultures from New York University and a BA in ethnic studies from UC Berkeley. She is a college professor of literature and composition.