College Composition CLEP Prep Practice Exam

Which one of the following phrases best describes the purpose of developing a thesis statement?

1. It defines the subject

2. It clarifies an opinion

3. It states the main idea

4. It acts as an introduction

The correct answer is: It clarifies an opinion

A thesis statement not only defines the subject, but it also guides the writer's focus by stating their opinion on the topic. While choice A and C may be partially correct, they do not fully encompass the purpose of a thesis statement. A thesis statement is not an introduction, which eliminates choice D as the correct answer.