I'm doing a thesis on the Olmec Maya and Aztec. It says I need an abstract page that has a 150-250 summary of key points of research. Where does the thesis statement go? I'm so confused.

1 answer

Your thesis statement is a pivotal component of your thesis, as it articulates the main argument or claim that your research will support. While the abstract is a summary of your overall research, including key points, findings, and conclusions, the thesis statement typically appears at the end of the introduction section of your thesis.

Here’s a breakdown of how you can structure your thesis:

  1. Abstract: This is a concise summary (150-250 words) of your entire research project. It should include:

    • A brief overview of the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec cultures.
    • The main research questions or objectives.
    • A summary of your methodology (how you approached the research).
    • Key findings or conclusions.
    • The significance of your research.
  2. Introduction: After the abstract, you'll have your introduction section. In this section:

    • Provide context for your study, explaining the importance of the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec cultures.
    • Introduce your research questions and objectives in more detail.
    • Present your thesis statement, which encapsulates the main argument or proposition of your thesis.

By placing the thesis statement in the introduction, you clarify to your readers what you will be arguing or proving throughout your thesis and set the stage for the subsequent sections of your work.

If you're still feeling confused, don’t hesitate to reach out to your advisor or a faculty member for additional guidance. They can offer specific advice tailored to your program and area of study.