Where is a thesis statement typically found?

A thesis statement is typically found at the end of the introductory paragraph of an essay. This placement serves several important functions in writing. It provides the reader with a clear understanding of the main argument, position, or claim that the essay will support. By placing the thesis statement at the conclusion of the introduction, the writer sets the stage for the rest of the essay, guiding the reader on what to expect in terms of content and structure.

In contrast, placing a thesis statement at the beginning of the conclusion would disrupt the flow of the essay, as conclusions are meant to summarize and reflect on the arguments made rather than introduce new ideas. While body paragraphs provide supporting evidence and discuss the main points of the thesis, they do not contain the thesis itself. Lastly, the references section of a paper is reserved for listing sources and citations, making it inappropriate for a thesis statement, which encapsulates the main argument rather than providing source information.