Final answer:
A thesis statement in a persuasive essay should include a clear stance on a topic and the main idea of the paper. It needs to be specific and defendable, setting the direction for the supporting paragraphs. Adequate evidence for the chosen topic is essential for an effective thesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
A thesis statement for a persuasive essay should include C. a statement for or against the topic and the main idea of the paper. This thesis statement serves as a concise summary of the argument you are making and the main points you will use to support your position. It should introduce the topic, state your perspective, and give an overview of the evidence that will be presented in the body of the essay to back up your claim. In persuasive writing, the thesis is crucial as it guides the structure of the essay and informs the reader of the argument's direction.
Keep in mind that the thesis should be narrow and modest for ease of defending your position, rather than making grand broad claims. Topic sentences in each paragraph of the essay should support the thesis statement, making the argument cohesive and coherent. Moreover, it's important to select a topic with sufficient evidence to make your paper persuasive and easier to write.