Why is the thesis important for the HiSET essay?

• A. It states the main claim of the entire essay; everything else should support it.
• B. It determines the font to be used.
• C. It is optional if the paragraphs are strong.
• D. It should be placed in the conclusion.

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is that the thesis is the central claim that shapes the whole essay. In a HiSET essay, the thesis states the claim you will argue or explain, and every paragraph should support or develop that claim with evidence, reasons, or examples. Because of that, the thesis gives the piece focus and helps readers follow your argument from introduction through body to conclusion. It isn’t about font or formatting, and it’s not something you skip if your paragraphs seem strong—the entire essay should connect back to it. Typically the thesis appears in the introduction, not in the conclusion, which should instead summarize or restate the claim. So, the thesis is the central claim your essay supports, guiding the entire argument.