Which of the following best describes a thesis statement?

A thesis statement succinctly encapsulates the main argument or position of a piece of writing, guiding both the writer's focus and the reader's understanding. It typically appears at the end of the introductory paragraph and provides a clear direction for the paper by outlining the central idea or claim that the writer intends to support throughout the text. This clarity enables readers to grasp what to expect in the discussion or analysis that follows, making it a foundational element of effective writing.

In contrast, lengthy explanations do not serve the function of a thesis statement as they lack conciseness and focus. Quotes can be powerful but do not convey the writer's specific argument or perspective; instead, they represent someone else's ideas. Finally, a list of references belongs to the bibliography or works cited section, which supports the content but does not summarize the piece's main argument.