What is the primary purpose of a thesis statement?

The primary purpose of a thesis statement is to declare the main point or argument of an essay or paper. A thesis statement serves as a roadmap for both the writer and the reader. It presents the central argument or claim that the paper will support and explain, helping to guide the direction of the entire piece of writing. By clearly stating the main idea, it allows readers to understand the writer's intent from the outset and provides a focused lens through which to interpret the subsequent arguments and evidence presented in the work. A strong thesis statement is specific and debatable, encouraging critical engagement with the topic.