What is the primary purpose of a "thesis statement" in an essay?

A thesis statement serves as the foundation of an essay, presenting the main argument or claim that the writer will support and explore throughout the text. This statement is typically placed in the introduction and clearly indicates the writer's stance on the topic. By articulating a specific viewpoint or argument, the thesis guides the direction of the essay, informing the reader about what to expect.

In contrast, summarizing the conclusion focuses on restating points made in the essay, while providing background information sets the context but does not assert a particular argument. Introducing the conclusion of the argument may mislead readers by anticipating a closing statement instead of defining the main point to be developed. Therefore, the thesis statement is pivotal in framing the essay’s purpose and guiding its development.