How does a thesis differ from a topic?

A thesis presents the main argument or claim that the writer intends to support and explore throughout the piece. It serves as a roadmap for the reader, outlining the direction and purpose of the writing. In contrast, a topic is simply the broad subject that the writing addresses, without providing any specific stance or argument. For example, if the topic is "climate change," the thesis might be a specific argument about the human impact on climate. This distinction is key to academic writing, as a thesis provides clarity and focus, guiding the development of the supporting ideas and evidence, while the topic merely sets the stage for the discussion. Understanding this difference is essential for effectively structuring an essay or research paper.