Final answer:
The thesis statement of an argumentative essay effectively articulates the author's position on a debatable topic, providing a specific and arguable claim that is supported by evidence throughout the essay.
Step-by-step explanation:
The thesis statement of an argumentative essay is best described as a sentence establishing the position on the topic. It is a declarative sentence that articulates the main argument or claim of the essay, providing a clear and specific statement that can be debated. The thesis not only states the writer's position or claim on a debatable issue but is also typically supported with credible researched evidence presented in the body of the essay through well-developed paragraphs with clear topic sentences that relate directly back to the thesis statement.
In an effective essay, evidence such as statements of fact, statistics, examples, and expert opinion are used to support the writer's points. This evidence is accompanied by a detailed analysis explaining how the evidence relates to and supports the thesis claim. A thesis statement serves as a roadmap for the essay, guiding the presentation of ideas and ensuring that all parts of the argument are interconnected and directed toward validating the central claim.