Rhetorical terms · AP English Language, SAT Reading and Writing, ACT Reading
Defensible thesis
Also called: Thesis statement
Defensible thesis: A thesis that takes a position on the prompt and can be supported with evidence and reasoning.
By the CollegePrepRoom editorial team · Updated · How we write and check these pages
What it means
A thesis is defensible when a reader could reasonably disagree with it and the writer can support it with evidence. It must respond to the prompt's actual question. A summary, a list of topics or a statement of fact is not defensible because there is nothing to argue.
On AP rubrics, the thesis point rewards a defensible position. A modest thesis that is clear and arguable earns the point.
Example
Not defensible: 'This essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of online classes.' Defensible: 'Online classes serve working adults well but shortchange younger students, who need the structure of a classroom to stay on track.'
On the exam
Row A of the AP Lang and AP Lit rubrics and the thesis point on AP history and AP Gov rubrics all require a defensible thesis that responds to the prompt.
Lessons and practice questions
Related terms
- ClaimAn arguable statement a writer asks the audience to accept, supported by reasons and evidence.
- Line of reasoningThe logical sequence of claims that connects a thesis to its supporting evidence across an essay.
- QualificationLimiting a claim to the conditions or cases where it holds, making it more precise and defensible.