How to Develop a Thesis Statement With PowerPoint
A thesis or dissertation document includes research and other information. You can develop a thesis statement (which describes what you are trying prove to an academic audience) using PowerPoint by creating slides that convey your argument using specific language and ideas. Some universities specify strict requirements regarding page layout, type of paper, order of elements and citation style, so confirm such requirements before you begin.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Open a blank PowerPoint document.
-
2
Add your name and other information on the title page.
-
-
3
Click the "New Slide" button. Choose a layout and type your thesis statement. Avoid being vague. Your statement should include proof. Avoid phrases such as "I believe that" to express authority and confidence in your presentation text.
-
4
Click the "New Slide" button and select "Title and Content" as the layout to insert a new slide. Type your title in the top box and type your supporting details in the bottom box.
Develop your thesis statement in several levels on separate slides. For example, use a list to show three examples in support of your theory. Use cause and effect statements (which begin with "if" and are followed by "then") or compare and contrast different ideas.
-
5
Insert new slides to propose solutions to problems as part of developing your thesis statement. Describe advantages and disadvantages as well as any analysis or procedures conducted to reach these conclusions. Include pictures and multimedia to enhance your argument. Typically, include one slide for each subtopic and at least one paragraph, which should contain a topic sentence to introduce the information. Adjust your writing style depending on your discipline. For example, for the humanities, use complex metaphors and images while for the sciences, choose a more analytical style.
-
6
Insert a final new slide for your conclusion. Describe why the topic is significant, additional research to be conducted and provide a call to action, if appropriate.
-
7
Insert a new slide for research citations, following the style guidelines mandated by your institution.
-
8
Use PowerPoint tools to check your work. For example, from the "Review" menu, click the "Spelling" button.
-
9
Check your work to ensure you have not plagiarized your sources.
-
10
Save your file.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Optionally, purchase the Information Rights Management service from Microsoft to protect your file from edits and manage the credentials required to access your file.
References
- "Writing the Winning Thesis or Dissertation: A Step-by-Step Guide;" Allan A. Glatthorn and Randy L. Joyner; 2005
- "Writing the Successful Thesis and Dissertation: Entering the Conversation;" Irene L. Clark; 2006
- "How to Write a Master's Thesis;" Yvonne N. Bui; 2009
