Which statement about a thesis statement is true?

• A. This essay discusses many topics.
• B. The impact of social media on teenager self-esteem will be examined by looking at three main effects, and the essay argues moderation is essential.
• C. I will talk about literature.
• D. Some people have opinions about literature.

Answer: (B)

A strong thesis statement makes a clear, arguable claim about a specific topic and signals how the argument will unfold. The best option does that by naming the topic (the impact of social media on teenager self-esteem), outlining the scope (three main effects to be examined), and taking a position that can be argued (that moderation is essential). This gives the reader a precise focus and a roadmap for the essay’s evidence and analysis. The other statements don’t meet this standard: one merely states that many topics will be discussed, which isn’t a claim; another is just a vague promise to discuss literature; and the last makes a broad, non-debatable remark about opinions rather than presenting a claim to be supported with evidence.