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What is the purpose of a thesis statement?

  1. To shorten a text

  2. To introduce the subject of the text

  3. To provide background information

  4. To support the main idea of a text

The correct answer is: To support the main idea of a text

A thesis statement is meant to be a concise and focused summary of the main idea and argument of a piece of writing. Options A, B, and C may also be present in a text, but they are not the primary purpose of a thesis statement. Option A, shortening a text, is not the purpose of a thesis statement as it is meant to be a clear and specific statement that guides the direction of the text. Option B, introducing the subject, can be a part of a good thesis statement, but it is not the sole purpose. Option C, providing background information, is also an important aspect of writing, but it is not the primary purpose of a thesis statement. Therefore, the best answer is Option D, as a thesis statement is meant to support the main idea of a text.