What are the differences between the main idea and a thesis?

ArlingtonVA

While some sources give a distinct definition for thesis: "A thesis statement is a non-focused section of text which clearly delineates the argument that will be presented in a...paper." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thesis_statement Most seem to feel they are the same thing: "A thesis or statement of main idea explains in one concise sentence what the reader can expect to learn from reading the essay." http://www.hhpublishing.com/_onlinecourses/gktdemo/gkt/essayskills/G2.html "The main idea, or thesis, should give your readers a clear and specific idea of your topic...The main idea can be thought of as a one or two sentence summary of the whole writing project." http://writesite.cuny.edu/projects/stages/draft/thesis/index.html Jul 03 09, 8:11 PM

zbeckabee

Another twist: The main difference is that "thesis" is generally used by teachers when referring to nonfiction works (you find them in history books and science books) while a "theme" is used when referring to a literary work (fiction). A thesis is stated plainly and early in a nonfiction work, while a theme is an idea or message that you get once you've read the book and you've taken some time to reflect on its meaning. The bottom line is that you won't find the theme of a book spelled out for you anywhere! But that doesn't mean you have to worry. You just have to read the book and get a feel for the message it conveys to you. http://homeworktips.about.com/b/2008/01/30/the-difference-between-a-thesis-and-a-theme.htm Jul 03 09, 9:18 PM

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