What is the role of a thesis in an essay?

A thesis statement serves as the backbone of an essay, encapsulating the main argument or point the writer intends to convey throughout the text. It provides clarity and direction for both the writer and the reader, effectively setting the stage for the discussion that follows. By summarizing the central idea concisely, the thesis guides the development of the essay, allowing the writer to build upon this foundation with supporting evidence and analysis. This focus not only helps maintain coherence in the essay but also assists the reader in understanding the writer's perspective from the outset. The other options, while relevant elements of essay writing, do not specifically describe the function of the thesis in presenting the main argument.